Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš attends an informal European Council meeting in Nicosia. One of the main topics was the debate on the EU's multiannual financial framework for the period 2028-2034. During the meeting, the Prime Minister rejected proposals that would lead to a reduction of funds for the Czech Republic and drew attention to fundamental differences in the Member States' attitudes towards the future shape of the budget.

„The positions are diametrically opposed, it's going to be a struggle and I think it will be very difficult for us to make it this year, especially as the current situation regarding fuel, oil and gas and other things will make it very difficult. I do not know how the Commission found out that we are so rich that it wants to take 220 billion from us. That is absolutely unacceptable. I have spoken out loudly against it. But we will, of course, discuss it, and it is also the main role of our government to negotiate this budget for 2027-2034. In 2020 we succeeded, we negotiated the second highest money, I brought 42 billion more for the Czech Republic.“ uvedl Babiš.

The Czech Republic will continue to advocate that the budget reflects the need to strengthen the competitiveness of the European and Czech economy and will strive to maintain the importance of traditional policies, especially cohesion and agricultural policies.

Another important topic of the informal summit in Cyprus was the situation in the Middle East and its impact on Europe, including in the field of energy. The instability in the region is reflected in energy prices and once again shows the importance of energy security.

In this context, the Prime Minister sent a third letter this week to European leaders, the President of the European Commission and the President of the European Council with specific proposals to address high energy prices and adjust the current energy policy. The Czech Republic is advocating measures to support energy-intensive industry, greater flexibility in the system of emission allowances and a relaxation of regulatory measures that make it difficult to secure sufficient energy resources.

Continued support for Ukraine was also on the agenda, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attending the informal meeting of European leaders in Cyprus in person.

vláda.cz/gnews.cz - GH