Speeches

Mr President, the cornerstone of the welfare state is the very widely accepted progressive taxation. You pay taxes and receive high-quality public services in return, which you can also seek to decide on democratically in public duties. It is very important that taxation continues to be a national competence. But there is a huge need for international cooperation in tax evasion, exchange of information and the large-scale collection of taxes in general. Taxes are also very important in terms of inequality in society. In particular, economic, social or regional inequalities between people and regions also create a basis for the growth of various extremist movements. That is why tax policy must also take care of the overall integrity of society, and for that it works very well when used smartly. A sound tax policy will generate economic growth that can even out harmful inequalities. Above all, our continent needs prosperous, sustainable economic growth. A bad tax policy prevents it, a good one makes it possible.