On July 8, 2025, the European Parliament’s plenary session in Brussels was marked by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen’s presentation of priorities for Denmark’s six-month presidency of the Council of the European Union. The session, which began at 9:00 AM with a focus on EU-China relations, included notable discussions on key international and domestic issues.

Prime Minister Frederiksen, alongside European Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, outlined Denmark’s agenda, emphasizing a commitment to addressing climate change, enhancing EU-China relations, and strengthening the European economy. A press conference with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola followed the presentation, offering further insights into Denmark’s strategic objectives.

The day commenced with a debate on EU-China relations, as MEPs prepared for the upcoming 2025 EU-China summit. Discussions centered around China’s export restrictions on critical raw materials, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Danish European Affairs Minister Marie Bjerre participating. A resolution vote on this issue is slated for Thursday.

As the session progressed, attention shifted to the Middle East, where MEPs debated recent developments and explored the EU’s role in promoting peace. The session also tackled climate change, with members voting on fast-tracking the European Climate Law’s 2040 greenhouse gas reduction target. Additional votes addressed energy security, the EU-Greenland Fisheries Partnership, and Bulgaria’s euro adoption, reflecting the Parliament’s wide-ranging agenda.

The European Parliament’s plenary session continues to be a critical platform for discussing pressing global issues, with live coverage available via Parliament’s web streaming services.