The Informal Council of General Affairs held yesterday and today in Budapest dealt with, among other things, issues such as strengthening the competitiveness of the European Union (EU) and respect for the rule of law
The strengthening< /strong> of the competitiveness of the European Union (EU) and respect for the rule of law, as well as dealing with the demographic challenges in Europe occupied the Informal General Affairs Council held yesterday and today in Budapest, Hungary, with the Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Rauna, who participated in the Council, underlining that the rule of law is the cornerstone of the EU.
According to a statement from the Deputy Minister's Office, the goal of the informal Council was to coordinate the discussions > on these issues in the various compositions of the Council, as well as the preparationof the Informal European Council, which will take place on November 8, in Budapest.
It is noted that in her intervention, Mrs. Rauna emphasized that the EU must not only remain competitive, but take the lead. This, as she explained, is an integral part of the Union's position in the world and the autonomy strategy.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the need to support small and medium enterprises. and key sectors of the European economy such as shipping, which are key in the effort to strengthen competitiveness. In this context, he called for the deepening of the single market, a space where businesses can grow, with less bureaucracy and administrative burden.
Referring to competitiveness and respect for the rule of law, Ms Rauna underlined that the rule of law is the cornerstone of the EU, noting that ensuring a stable legislative process environment contributes to strengthening competitiveness.
She pointed out the need for impact assessments to be integrated throughout the legislative process, as an important tool that will further ensure the effectiveness of the European acquis and coherence at European level.
In this context, the Deputy Minister welcomed the European Commission's commitment to impact assessment on all legislative acts. As she mentioned, the impact assessment should take into account the unique characteristics of each EU member state.
At the same time, Ms. Rauna also pointed out the importance of enhanced participation of stakeholders in the public consultation during the legislative stage. process.
The Deputy Minister also referred to the strengthening of competitiveness by addressing labor force shortages, in the shadow of demographic challenges, while she particularly pointed out the need to support the competitiveness of European industry, as a strategic priority, for the transition to a greener, more digital and more resilient economy.
It is noted that referring to the case of Cyprus, the Deputy Minister noted the demographic challenges facing the country and the impact on the labor market.
It is added that Mrs. Rauna referred to measures taken, the importance of strengthening the participation of women, as well as young people in the labor market, and the activation of the potential that is currently unemployed.
