European Parliament President Roberta Metsola used her address to EU leaders at the European Council to press for competitiveness measures, including urgent progress on Europe’s Savings and Investments Union and a review of regulatory requirements that are no longer supporting investment, with simplification explicitly extending to financial services. She also called for “One Europe, One Market” to proceed with fixed timelines and delivery targets, while insisting on the European Parliament’s full involvement and stating it will not act as a rubber stamp. Beyond competitiveness, Metsola highlighted that Europe’s diversified energy mix reduces exposure but does not eliminate vulnerability to price shocks, and pointed to storage, grids, and reducing external demand as priorities; she also referenced geopolitical developments including Iran, attacks against Gulf countries, Cyprus, and Russia’s war in Ukraine.
European Parliament 2026-03-19
European Parliament President Metsola urges EU leaders to accelerate the Savings and Investments Union and simplify financial services rules
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola urged EU leaders to advance competitiveness measures, emphasizing progress on the Savings and Investments Union and reviewing outdated regulations. She advocated for the "One Europe, One Market" initiative with fixed timelines and full European Parliament involvement. Metsola also highlighted Europe's energy vulnerabilities and geopolitical concerns, including Iran, Gulf attacks, Cyprus, and Russia's war in Ukraine.