Strasbourg:The European Parliament is set to address a wide array of significant topics in its plenary session from October 19 to 22. Among the key discussions, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) will examine the outcomes of the recent European Council meeting with prominent figures, including Presidents Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the session will also feature the announcement of the 2026 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, which will be delivered by President Metsola. The award decision comes from Parliament's Conference of Presidents.

MEPs will deliberate on several pressing issues, including the escalation of Russian strikes in the EU and Black Sea shipping, as well as the response to Houthi attacks impacting regional security. Other topics include the EU's support for the International Criminal Court and the future of EU-UK relations, which will be discussed with representatives from the Irish Council Presidency and the European Commission.

The agenda further includes debates on the EU's strategic autonomy in securing critical raw materials, the 2027 EU budget, and the EU's priorities for the Antalya climate summit (COP31). Parliament will also vote on measures related to the EU emissions trading system and changes to EU chemicals legislation.

Additionally, MEPs will discuss improving high-speed rail connectivity, cohesion policies for EU cities and regions affected by Russian aggression, and recovery aid for Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Malta following recent storms. The disbursement of funds to assist laid-off workers in Finland's paper industry will also be on the agenda.