European Parliament Addresses Key Issues on Plenary Session

The European Parliament engaged in crucial discussions during its plenary session on Wednesday, May 7th, addressing significant topics ranging from the pursuit of peace in Ukraine to commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, and outlining priorities for the post-2027 long-term EU budget.

One of the focal points of the session was a debate on securing a just peace in Ukraine. MEPs, along with Commission President von der Leyen and Polish Minister for EU Affairs Szłapka, deliberated on the EU’s potential contributions towards attaining a sustainable and comprehensive peace deal for Ukraine. The discussion emphasized the EU’s political, financial, and military aid for Ukraine and its role in securing a peace settlement that upholds Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within the bounds of international law.

In remembrance of the end of World War II in Europe, a solemn flag-raising ceremony and wreath-laying event was held on the WEISS esplanade. President Metsola and Costa, accompanied by World War II veterans, participated in the ceremony that also included speeches highlighting the significance of the occasion.

Additionally, MEPs voted on a resolution outlining their vision for the EU’s 2028-2034 budget, calling for an adaptable budget that aligns with current geopolitical, economic, and environmental realities. The session also included debates on various pressing issues such as gas supply regulations, electricity grid resilience, social media platform regulations, and the legality of Malta’s citizenship by investment program.

The plenary session concluded with MEPs voting on several crucial files, including the management of the 2023 EU budget and reports on Türkiye, Serbia, and Kosovo. Live coverage of the session was available on Parliament’s webstreaming platform, providing viewers with real-time access to the deliberations and decisions made during the event.