Today, the Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson presented the programme of the Swedish Presidency of the Council to MEPs gathered in Strasbourg for the first plenary session of the European Parliament of 2023.
In its third Presidency, Sweden’s chief priorities aim to make the EU greener, safer and freer. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson highlighted his country’s four main priorities:
1. Security
The Swedish Presidency will continue to implement actions to support Ukraine against Russia. This will include monitoring Ukraine’s progress in its path towards EU membership and developing solutions to aid the reconstruction of the country.
2. Green and Energy Transitions
The conclusion of the work on Fit for 55 package is a priority for the Swedish Presidency. Additionally, Sweden will begin the work on reforming the European electricity market design.
3. Competitiveness
The green and energy transitions need to go hand in hand with long-term competitiveness. EU companies must be able to compete internationally. For this reason, Sweden will work on a new long-term strategy at EU level to boost competitiveness and productivity.
4. Uphold the European Union’s common values.
Upholding the principle of the rule of law and fundamental rights is an essential priority of Sweden’s Presidency.
The full speech is available here.