Davos 2025: Von der Leyen charts EU’s pragmatic path amid global shift
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At the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, Von der Leyen charts a resilient EU: boosting competitiveness with less bureaucracy, efficient markets, and clean energy. The European Commission's President defends climate goals against U.S. policies while pursuing global alliances and trade talks. Vision: a strong Europe thriving in a fragmented and competitive world.
EU’s vision for a changing world
European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen addressed the World Economic Forum in Davos, outlining the European Union's strategic direction for the next five years. Emphasizing pragmatism while upholding core values, she acknowledged the need to adapt to a world reshaped by geostrategic competition and fractured global economic balances.
Von der Leyen stated firmly that Europe must change course, underscoring a commitment to ensuring the EU remains competitive and resilient in the face of evolving challenges.
A pragmatic agenda for European competitiveness
The President's approach draws on a forthcoming report on European competitiveness, prepared by Mario Draghi, which introduces a framework with three key pillars:
Unlocking capital markets: Von der Leyen stressed that Europe has abundant capital but lacks an efficient capital market, calling for mobilization of liquid assets to spur investment within the EU.
Streamlining business regulations: simplifying bureaucratic processes and adopting unified legislation are essential for fostering a more dynamic business environment.
Advancing clean energy goals: the EU remains committed to achieving decarbonization through nature-based solutions and renewable energy initiatives.
The EU response to U.S. policy shifts
Although she did not directly mention U.S. President Trump's recent “drill baby drill” rhetoric, Von der Leyen indirectly addressed his administration’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. She reaffirmed Europe’s unwavering support for the accord, calling it “the best hope for all humanity,” and outlined the EU’s intent to collaborate with nations dedicated to combating global warming. Von der Leyen’s vision starkly contrasts with Trump’s energy policies, emphasizing a future built on sustainability and global cooperation.
Building bridges in a fragmented world
In an interconnected yet divided global landscape, Von der Leyen advocated for strengthening existing alliances and forging new partnerships. The EU’s recent agreements with Switzerland and Mercosur, along with plans to initiate discussions with China and India, demonstrate its proactive stance on international collaboration.
Acknowledging the deep integration between the European and U.S. economies, Von der Leyen expressed a willingness to negotiate with the Trump administration to seek common ground while safeguarding the Union’s founding principles. President Trump is expected to respond to Von der Leyen’s address tomorrow afternoon at Davos, where the focus will likely shift to U.S.-EU relations and the future of global trade and cooperation.
EU’s vision for a changing world
European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen addressed the World Economic Forum in Davos, outlining the European Union's strategic direction for the next five years. Emphasizing pragmatism while upholding core values, she acknowledged the need to adapt to a world reshaped by geostrategic competition and fractured global economic balances.
Von der Leyen stated firmly that Europe must change course, underscoring a commitment to ensuring the EU remains competitive and resilient in the face of evolving challenges.
A pragmatic agenda for European competitiveness
The President's approach draws on a forthcoming report on European competitiveness, prepared by Mario Draghi, which introduces a framework with three key pillars:
Unlocking capital markets: Von der Leyen stressed that Europe has abundant capital but lacks an efficient capital market, calling for mobilization of liquid assets to spur investment within the EU.
Streamlining business regulations: simplifying bureaucratic processes and adopting unified legislation are essential for fostering a more dynamic business environment.
Advancing clean energy goals: the EU remains committed to achieving decarbonization through nature-based solutions and renewable energy initiatives.
The EU response to U.S. policy shifts
Although she did not directly mention U.S. President Trump's recent “drill baby drill” rhetoric, Von der Leyen indirectly addressed his administration’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. She reaffirmed Europe’s unwavering support for the accord, calling it “the best hope for all humanity,” and outlined the EU’s intent to collaborate with nations dedicated to combating global warming. Von der Leyen’s vision starkly contrasts with Trump’s energy policies, emphasizing a future built on sustainability and global cooperation.
Building bridges in a fragmented world
In an interconnected yet divided global landscape, Von der Leyen advocated for strengthening existing alliances and forging new partnerships. The EU’s recent agreements with Switzerland and Mercosur, along with plans to initiate discussions with China and India, demonstrate its proactive stance on international collaboration.
Acknowledging the deep integration between the European and U.S. economies, Von der Leyen expressed a willingness to negotiate with the Trump administration to seek common ground while safeguarding the Union’s founding principles. President Trump is expected to respond to Von der Leyen’s address tomorrow afternoon at Davos, where the focus will likely shift to U.S.-EU relations and the future of global trade and cooperation.