European Union leaders committed to “Buy European” policies during their summit addressing continental competitiveness. The 27-nation gathering focused on protecting strategic sectors amid global economic volatility and competitive pressures.
Costa confirmed widespread agreement on protecting defense, space, clean tech, quantum, artificial intelligence, and payment systems through proportional European preference. The targeted approach balances strategic protection with international trade commitments.
Von der Leyen’s March action plan encompasses regulatory simplification, EU Inc startup support, capital market integration, and energy price reductions. The comprehensive package addresses multiple competitiveness constraints through coordinated initiatives.
Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands face severe challenges with factory closures and investment declines. Prime Minister De Wever blamed high energy costs, regulatory burdens, and Chinese dumping, creating urgency for responses.
The summit addressed regulatory barriers, fragmented capital markets, and single market obstacles beyond procurement policies. Von der Leyen criticized excessive national regulations complicating business operations across borders.