Speeches

Madam President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, first of all, I would like to begin by thanking you for your support for our work on this important resolution. In particular, I want to thank President Basescu for the way he coordinated the negotiations yesterday, so that today we have a document with historical value for Romania, here, to vote in the plenary of the Parliament. A year ago I was bringing up for the first time the subject of Romania's treasure seized in Moscow. We were doing so then in the context of our discussion on the illicit trafficking of cultural products in the European Union. Today I am honoured that we have a debate in the European Parliament dedicated exclusively to this subject, as it is a unique episode in the history of international relations. There is no similar dispute in the world. Romania's treasury was not stolen during the war. He was handed over for safekeeping on the basis of a bilateral agreement between the Government of Romania and the Government of Tsarist Russia. We are talking about paintings, jewelry, valuable goods from the churches and monasteries of Romania, the archives of public institutions, as well as over 91.5 tons of gold representing the treasury of the National Bank of Romania. Some of the cultural and religious goods were returned during the Soviet period, but Romania's gold is still seized in Russia today. More than 91.5 tons of gold. It is a legal claim of Romania against Russia, which Moscow does not recognize, and this does not surprise us. Who, if not Russia, is best at misinforming, distorting the past, stealing territory, destroying destinies? That is why I am asking for your support for a vote on this resolution calling for the return of Romania's treasury.

Mr President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased that this report takes into account the close link between economic growth and the well-being of citizens. That is why we need to coordinate at European level and monitor at national level the promotion of those economic and social policies that are focused on combating poverty, reducing inequalities, ensuring a good education for young people and creating decent jobs. The European Union must remain competitive on the global market, even in the face of current challenges such as high inflation, high energy prices, slow productivity growth, an ageing population, and the war in Ukraine. In this regard, the Commission’s recommendation to remove obstacles to investment, support a favourable business environment and develop the skills needed for the green and digital transitions is positive. For the well-being of all our businesses and families, they need strong political commitment and responsibly implemented economic and social measures.

Mr President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, we are in the age of digitalisation. We went through a health crisis and saw what this pause meant in the education system and how hard it was for teachers to keep up and prepare the young generation for the future. Technological advances provide us with fantastic opportunities. Unfortunately, not all regions in Europe are able to seize these opportunities and, in particular, we have great vulnerabilities when it comes to education. Therefore, I believe that it is essential to focus our attention on new, creative policies, through which to stimulate a quality education, through which to provide teachers with the necessary comfort and confidence that they can do their job with honor and dedication. Because I firmly believe that what Europe deserves most today is a consistent investment in the status of the teacher, in the status of the teacher, who has the necessary comfort to be able to provide a quality education. This is the only way to prepare Europe for the future. If we look at the PISA tests, we see how big the slippages and differences are from one country to another, from one region to another. We are in an election campaign. We all promise our teachers that we'll make sure they get more money. We must also live up to this commitment in our next mandate.

Mr President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, I congratulate the authors on this initiative. It is extremely important to convey to the citizens of Belarus that the European Union has remained by their side, alongside their aspirations, and obviously we need to do more to ensure that freedom, human rights, the right to association, freedom of expression and the guarantee that journalists must do their duty in a free society are values that Belarus will one day embrace. It is clear that this criminal, who is practically in constant competition with the Kremlin, is doing everything in his power to commit horrors, to humiliate citizens, to repress the opposition, and it is our duty to assure them that we stand by them and that we will do everything necessary to make Lukashenko one day answer for all these crimes.

Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, I come before you today to stress the importance of extending the mandate of the European Labour Agency in the light of changes in the employment landscape in the European Union. In 2021, around 10 million working-age EU citizens chose to live and work in another Member State. This growth-enhancing labour mobility is hampered by the fact that we have 27 different labour market regimes. The European Labour Agency was established to facilitate cross-border cooperation for the effective enforcement of labour law. However, the Agency has not yet reached its full operational potential due to the voluntary nature of the cooperation of the Member States and its limited competences. That is why the issue of social security at European Union level remains a major challenge. It is time to overcome barriers and strengthen a Europe of work based on fair principles and solidarity.

Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, this House must condemn in the clearest terms the terrorist attacks orchestrated by Hamas against the citizens of Israel and against peace in this region. Terrorism cannot be justified anywhere. It is also important to distinguish between the Palestinian people, the need to protect and respect and the terrorist organisation Hamas and its terrorist actions. In these moments of tension, let us not forget that international humanitarian law must be our guide in any conflict. Both parties involved must take the necessary measures to avoid civilian bloodshed. The European Union must continue to promote political and diplomatic dialogue and contribute to de-escalating tensions in the Middle East. Together with our international partners, we must do everything possible to bring peace and security to this region without compromise.

Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased that we debate every year the report on the situation of human rights, as we can honestly analyse what we have achieved, where we have failed and what we can improve. We can consider ourselves privileged because we live in the European Union where human rights, fundamental rights and freedoms are respected. Democracy, equality, the rule of law are fully shared and non-negotiable values. But we also have a responsibility to turn our attention to areas where they are trampled on by authoritarian regimes, subject to dictatorial interests. One such example, which I bring to attention whenever I have the opportunity, is the human rights situation in the Transnistrian separatist region of the Republic of Moldova, where, constantly, with the support of the Russian Federation Army, basic rights such as freedom of expression or the right to the Romanian language are violated.

Madam President, honourable Ombudsman, today I would like to stress the importance of the principle of transparency in public administration, an area in which the institutions of the European Union are trying to set a positive example. Within the EU, where diversity and cohesion are essential, the principle of transparency becomes crucial. Transparency should be the bridge between the European institutions and their citizens, allowing Europeans to have access to clear and comprehensive information about decision-making processes, so that they can ultimately actively contribute to shaping the policies that affect them. Moreover, when administrative processes are open and visible, a climate of trust is created between the administration and the citizens. This leads to better understanding and addressing the needs and concerns of citizens. Moreover, when administrative processes are clear, a framework is created in which citizens can effectively defend their rights. Transparency is therefore a barrier against abuses of power and a way to ensure respect for democratic principles. Of course, the institutions of the European Union still have work to do to ensure a better administration, in line with the needs of all European citizens.

Madam President, Commissioner, just a few days ago I had the honour of participating in a high-level diplomatic event, an initiative organised in Timisoara, Romania, which awarded the Timisoara Prize for European Values. An extraordinary event organized at the initiative of Mayor Dominic Fritz, which I congratulate. This year's prize for promoting European values was awarded to President Maia Sandu, the leader from Chişinău, who faces every day the threats of Moscow, a state that has an illegal military presence on its territory for more than thirty years in the Transnistrian separatist region. We are constantly in need of such messages of support through diplomacy, and I am glad that, on this occasion, the European Parliament has sent a strong message of support, through the voice of President Metsola and, obviously, alongside other European leaders. Our partners in the East, in Chisinau and Kiev, need constant support and this we must do with all determination.

Mr President, Mr High Representative, no crime can in any way ever be justified, but it is almost three months since this bloody attack by a terrorist group that does not care about what is happening in Israel or Gaza. That is why I think it is very important not to distort reality and to look lucidly at what is happening there. Those who provoked this barbaric attack are also responsible for its consequences. Do they want peace? We all want peace, but it can't be done under any circumstances, and anyway, for a very simple reason: because there are still innocent people waiting to be released, and we must stand by them to help Israel in this delicate moment.

Madam President, Commissioner, I think this is an extremely important moment, as we observe that the Russian Federation is investing enormously in disinformation and in manipulating the citizens of the European Union. I ask the European Commission to have the courage to come up with a package of bold measures to combat the tools of disinformation and manipulation of European citizens, in a context where we need more than ever solidarity and concrete action to defend democracy. The tools that Russia is using today in Europe clearly show that they are achieving their effect, because the vast majority of European decision-makers are afraid of public opinion, which is unfortunately being manipulated. The best example is the war in Ukraine. We must have the courage to look at reality and act now.

Madam President, Commissioner, this month, on 4-5 December, the JHA Council took place and, unacceptably, only the prospect of entry into the Schengen area for Romania and Bulgaria was discussed on the agenda. It is incomprehensible, Commissioner, why a Member State of the European Union is restricting the right of 25 million European citizens to enjoy the opportunities of the European single market. We are restricted by fundamental rights, such as free movement within the Schengen area and free movement of goods from Romania and Bulgaria. We believe that at this moment the Commission must be fair and put in place the government in Vienna, which unjustifiably blocks Romania's and Bulgaria's access to the Schengen area. It is incomprehensible how we can ask our partners to comply with European standards, and European Union member states to keep Romania and Bulgaria out of the Schengen area for 16 years.

Madam President, today, here in the European Parliament, we have spoken of an unacceptable reality in the European Union and, in particular, in my country, the poverty in which millions of children live. In the case of Romania, the Romanian government finally managed to propose an action plan for the European Child Guarantee, but with a delay of more than 19 months. Children do not have to pay an expensive price for the indecision of politicians. That is why I think it is very important that this plan responds to all the needs that the young generation is facing. Poverty, unfortunately, also starts from the major lack of education faced by the young generation. The lack of sufficient budgetary resources allocated, the lack of free transport to school and free educational materials all produce effects in this matter. That is why I believe it is essential that we focus on implementing the Child Guarantee throughout the European Union.

Madam President, today I voted on a vital issue: insufficient support for our families and children in Europe and, including, in my country, Romania. The pandemic has exposed serious gaps and worrying discrepancies, and the reality is that the Romanian government, in my case, is proving incapable of ensuring the well-being of children. We need an ambitious approach at Union level and we need to draw attention to the fundamental needs of future generations. Free education, affordable health care and adequate nutrition should be guaranteed rights, not privileges. Instead of looking at helplessness, we must become the voice of those parents and children who are neglected. Building a Europe where family support and childcare are not just promises, but realities. Our future is shaped by young people and we have a responsibility to ensure that they grow up in a safe and prosperous environment.

Madam President, today we debated the directions that the European Union must take ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference. First of all, we must appreciate the fact that the European Union is currently leading the way on climate change, proving that we can be a global model for the fight against climate change. Therefore, I believe that all our efforts must not come at too high a cost. We must be vigilant, not destroy industry and competitiveness, and ensure that the Union's actions are carried out in the interest of European citizens, both now and in the future. Moreover, we need to ensure that all our global partners deliver on climate action commitments. Thus, our efforts become insignificant and unfair. It is time to create a fair global approach, to ensure that our contributions to the fight against climate change are reflected in concrete actions, benefiting the entire planet.

Madam President, the sanctions imposed on Russia are proof of the ability of Member States to coordinate when Europe's security is threatened. It is regrettable, however, that, in times of historical crises, this unity is endangered by some states, such as Austria, which has doubled its economic trade in goods imported from Russia since the beginning of the war in Ukraine. In 2021, the value of products imported by Austria from Russia increased by 77% and in 2022 by 98% compared to the figures recorded in 2019, before the imposition of sanctions. Basically, Vienna continues to supply the barbarian regime in Moscow with more than 20 million euros a day. In this context, I call on the Commission to respond to the referral that I made with my colleague, MEP Vlad Botos, about these flagrant violations of the conditions of sanctions with regard to Russia.

Madam President, strengthening the financial autonomy of the European Union is in the interest of all Member States, as it guarantees us the necessary resources to overcome crisis situations. I therefore voted for the proposal to improve the system of own resources of the European Union in order to make it simpler, more transparent, fair and fiscally neutral for citizens. Diversification of income sources is necessary, given the increasing expenses, and this updated basket is expected to generate revenues in the order of 45 billion euros per year in current prices, starting with 2028. We are all beneficiaries of the European Union budget and we need to make sure that this is not a politically used topic, as has happened so many times. Diversification of the European Union's own resources is a necessity. There is no reason for political strife between Member States. On the contrary, it is a reason for mobilisation and responsibility, so that we can collect at source without burdening European citizens.

Madam President, the fight against climate change remains a priority for the European Union, and the introduction of the new Euro 7 emission standards for cars, vans and heavy-duty vehicles is a huge step towards a sustainable Europe. It is very important, however, that these measures always focus on improving the quality of life of citizens of the European Union. That is why the new pollution limits must be realistic and ensure that the European automotive industry remains globally competitive and relevant. Moreover, we must ensure that the European economy does not become dependent on third countries' supply chains, especially in the uncertain global political context. I believe that Parliament's position on this proposal for a regulation is ambitious, but balanced and realistic. Thus, I voted in favour of a new set of rules to achieve the European Union's climate goals, without placing too much burden on citizens.

Madam President, it is an important day today, the European Commission has invited to start accession negotiations with the European Union, the Republic of Moldova. But I believe that rules are rules and should apply to everyone, including when we talk about sport. And I want to convey from here, from the plenary of the European Parliament, that it is unacceptable and incomprehensible UEFA's decision to organize football matches in a territory controlled by the Russian Federation for over 30 years, from the Republic of Moldova, in the Transnistrian region. I join Promo-LEX in calling for this organisation to suspend all matches played in an area controlled by Kremlin-guided separatists. This is unacceptable and I believe that we must have very high standards when discussing our strategic interests and respect for fundamental rights.

Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, we are all here to defend the rights and interests of the citizens who elected us. We are here to defend their rights to choose us or to send us home if we have failed in our duty to represent them honorably. We are here to defend democracy in Europe and all over the world. Therefore, it is time to speak openly, to call things by their own names. We are talking about promoting free and fair elections while we have among us supporters of states that use elections exclusively to preserve their power and interfere in electoral processes in other democratic states. The right to participate in elections is, of course, a fundamental right that needs no explanation, but ensuring it is not enough. It is essential to ensure that citizens have the right to fair and equidistant information. The real problem is still disinformation, propaganda, manipulation, tools used to control citizens and tell them what those who manipulate are interested in. The European Union has an obligation to react strongly and counter large-scale disinformation campaigns.

Madam President, High Representative, ladies and gentlemen, in this House I have condemned in the clearest and strongest terms the terrorist attacks orchestrated by Hamas, because terrorism cannot be justified at all. In the light of the latest events, however, we must not neglect the broader geopolitical picture. The tragic events in Israel must not divert the attention of the democratic world from the war in Ukraine. The destruction of the axis of terror begins with the defeat of Putin who, let us remember, did not condemn Hamas for the attack committed against the citizens of Israel. This is because the Kremlin is profiting from the proliferation of regional crises. Far from over, Russia's aggressiveness and imperialist ambitions continue to affect the lives of European citizens, the economy and the security of our continent. That is why I believe that we must accelerate the process of integration of the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine into the European Union and defend these European nations.

Madam President, access to the Danube River, the Danube Delta and the Black Sea are essential for Romanian fisheries. With a limited fleet but vital for local and regional fishing activities, Romania faces challenges in the fisheries sector. This includes the need to improve fishing infrastructure and facilities in ports, as well as the sustainable management of fisheries and the protection of biodiversity. As in all other sectors, we must maximise the use of European funds so that we can allocate more resources to modernising and expanding fishing ports, multiplying fish processing plants, and encouraging the renewal and modernisation of the fishing fleet. Small-scale fisheries also need to be better supported, for example, by implementing financial incentives and capacity-building programmes to help Romanian fisheries operate sustainably and profitably. That is why the proposal to amend the Fisheries Regulation voted on today is welcome.

Madam President, today I voted for a historic initiative that can redefine the future of Europe. The Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform is a courageous step towards a more competitive, resilient and sovereign Europe. In these turbulent times, marked by global conflicts and political instability, we need to invest more in our strategic sectors. With this initiative, we are strengthening our technological strength, ensuring our resilience against those who want to bring down European democracy. All the more so for new Member States, such as Romania, these investments are the key to unlocking their full potential, stimulating growth and improving our shared prosperity. Only in this way will we be able to guarantee that we remain on our European trajectory and do not fall prey to populism and external interference. This remarkable effort can bring investments of more than €150 billion, paving the way for a stronger, more autonomous Europe. Together we can lead on critical technologies and defend our values on the global stage.

Madam President, the war on Europe's borders is still an imminent reality, far from over. Russia's aggression and imperialist ambitions continue to affect the lives of European citizens, the economy and the security of the continent, and in order to provide an adequate response, European coordination and solidarity must not stop. That is why it is particularly important that the European Parliament has today reaffirmed its solidarity with Ukraine. The mechanism approved by an overwhelming majority of MEPs, under which we will allocate €50 billion for Ukraine’s recovery, reconstruction and modernisation as of 2024. This European support should help Ukraine to implement the reforms necessary to align with the requirements for accession to the European Union, because only in this way, through more integration in the spirit of the rule of law and transparency, can we stop Russia's abusive and authoritarian momentum in Europe.

Madam President, Commissioner, two weeks ago, we were discussing corruption cases in plenary concerning the management of the Schengen area. Looks like we solved them because we're taking it to another level. But beyond the irony, I want to ask you, Commissioner, because Article 265 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union obliges the Commission, as guardian of the Treaties, to take action before the Court of Justice of the European Union if one of the European institutions does not comply with the Treaty. Given that Romania and Bulgaria for 12 years have met all the criteria to be admitted to the Schengen area and the JHA Council is blocking this right, I ask you and I ask you to answer me. Why has the Commission not yet acted before the Court of Justice of the European Union in this abuse of power by the Council of the European Union?