Corona: N-VA advocates sensible solidarity within the EU

“It is in times of need that the EU must demonstrate its added value through responsible and sensible solidarity to protect European citizens and businesses.” European Parliament group leader Geert Bourgeois and MEPs Johan Van Overtveldt and Assita Kanko stress that the European coronavirus measures should support the countries, regions and business sectors most affected as soon as possible. At the same time, they warn that the crisis must not give rise to injudicious solidarity or the centralisation of powers that could lead to the development of a debt union that would undermine support for the EU.

Solidarity with those hardest hit

MEP Johan Van Overtveldt called for solidarity during the plenary session. “Solidarity with the Member States and regions most affected. The funds must get to where they are most needed. And they must be used properly, with a focus on the consequences of the pandemic.”

Crisis of unprecedented brutality

The economic crisis caused by the pandemic has been of unprecedented brutality, according to Johan Van Overtveldt. “The difference with the financial crisis of 2008-2009 is that this time, there is a much greater impact on both the supply and the demand sides. All governments must thus make every effort to provide the best possible conditions for recovery, bearing in mind the delicate balance between health and risk management on the one hand, and economic recovery - and thus the preservation of jobs and prosperity - on the other.”

Targeted focus

Johan Van Overtveldt calls for a targeted focus by the European institutions. “This is the time to take a closer look at other major - costly - projects. We continue to support a sustainable transition that focuses on future-oriented innovation and Competitiveness The extent to which companies in one country can compete with similar companies in another country. A law came into force in Belgium in 1996 to monitor competitiveness. This stipulates that Belgian salaries may not evolve faster than the average of those in the three neighbouring countries. The Central Economic Council (CEC) performs an annual measurement to see if the objectives have been obtained. competitiveness . These objectives must be integrated as far as possible into a strategy for economic recovery, and we must avoid that unnecessary rules obstruct a sustainable recovery.”

Better cooperation and coordination

As regards public health, the N-VA supports further action by the EU and calls for better cooperation and coordination across borders, while respecting the competence of Member States and federal states. It welcomes the use of European research funds for the development of a vaccine and calls for safeguarding the internal market, the Schengen area and international trade.

Europe too dependent

MEP Geert Bourgeois reiterates that the EU is too dependent on third countries for essential medical equipment. “The coronavirus crisis has made that clear. That is why the N-VA is urging the Commission to promote joint procurement further and to improve the availability of strategic equipment and related stocks.”

Emergency aid for developing countries

The N-VA is calling for the Commission to direct emergency aid to all initiatives that can help mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on the health crisis taking place in developing countries, and in particular in Africa. According to MEP Assita Kanko, we must also ensure that the coronavirus does not spread in refugee camps and reception centres and that human rights are respected. “The N-VA supports European aid to ensure that the necessary conditions of hygiene and medical support are provided. However, it must also be recognised that now is not an appropriate time to relocate asylum seekers and refugees within the EU. At present, the same principles apply to everyone, i.e. restricting movement across borders. This is necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

Sympathy for the victims

The N-VA delegation expresses its condolences to the victims of this unprecedented pandemic. “Our delegation expresses its solidarity with the most affected peoples, including those outside the EU, and expresses its special thanks to the health workers and all citizens who are providing essential services today”, says N-VA delegation leader Geert Bourgeois. “We support all measures taken at the EU level and particularly welcome the adjustment in the use of cohesion funds to support the most affected areas.”