Renew Europe scrutinises candidate for the President of the European Commission

Renew Europe MEPs this morning held a lively exchange of views with the candidate for the next President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.

Renew Europe expressed concerns with the EPP's cooperation with the far-right ECR Group and outlined its priorities, on defense and security, competitiveness and resolut red-tape cutting, rule of law failings and the need to respect the Green Deal. Renew Europe sought guarantees on institutional reform to strengthen the role of the Parliament and reform the Union.

Valérie Hayer, President of Renew Europe, said:

"Talks on building a pro-European coalition to renew Europe are at a decisive moment. Nothing is agreed until everything is agreed. Renew Europe has grave concerns about the EPP's willingness to make deals with the far-right in this house and we urge a change of course. The Europe of tomorrow will be built from the political centre, not on the backs of populists and extremists. Without our support, no stable pro-European majority is possible. We are ready to work for an agreement, but our negotiating partners must adequately meet our expectations and demands."