Nicosia: European Parliament President Roberta Metsola called on EU leaders to consider new sources of funding to address mounting crises, stressing that 'new money' will be needed to service existing debt, as she arrived at the Informal Meeting of EU Heads of State, on Friday, in Nicosia.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Metsola said the European Parliament will adopt its position on the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) next week and is ready to enter negotiations with member states, while urging leaders to 'look with fresh eyes at own resources.' She warned that the current EU budget is insufficient to tackle the scale of challenges facing the bloc.
On Ukraine, she welcomed the approval of a pound 90 billion loan, the latest 20th package of sanctions, and broader measures taken by the EU, saying they provide both financial support and political momentum. She also welcomed the prolonged ceasefire in Iran. 'Ukraine needs financial assistance, and it needs momentum and Europe is giving both,' she said.
Metsola outlined three main priorities she would present to leaders, starting with the 'One Europe - One Market' roadmap, which she said would help deliver on citizens' expectations through faster and more effective decision-making, reducing fragmentation within the Single Market.
On energy, she acknowledged existing measures to ease pressure on citizens but stressed the need to move beyond temporary solutions. She called for investment in energy grids and infrastructure, secure supply, and a more strategic approach to achieving Europe's long-term autonomy. 'Now is the moment to ensure the strategic autonomy we have been discussing for decades,' she said.
Addressing the broader geopolitical situation in the Middle East, Metsola pointed out the need for security and stability, stressing that European citizens 'should not foot the bill' for a crisis they did not create. She called on member states to respond to national circumstances while ensuring a unified message of protection and confidence. She said that the citizens need the message of security, stability, calm and confidence that they will be protected.