The European Parliament, the European Commission and the Council of the European Union will discuss today a united EU response to the tariffs imposed by the US, as well as the possibilities for expanding the Union's trade partnerships in other regions of the world, BTA reports.
On the same day, MEPs will discuss the priorities for the EU's long-term budget after 2027. MEPs are pushing for a significantly more ambitious financial framework, as the current budget ceiling of 1% of gross domestic product is no longer sufficient to deal with the growing number of crises and global challenges. An example of this is the need for increased support for Ukraine amid the declining US involvement in global conflicts.
In the context of the war in Ukraine, a vote is expected in the European Parliament on Thursday on new trade concessions for Ukrainian imports. According to the EU regulation of 4 June 2022, temporary trade liberalisation measures provide for the removal of import duties and quotas for Ukrainian products. So far, the measure has been extended three times, with the current deadline expiring on 5 June. With the expected new extension, attention will be focused on trade in iron and steel - key sources of income for Ukraine.
Strasbourg will also be the arena for a debate on the progress of the Western Balkan countries. Today, MEPs will discuss and tomorrow vote on an assessment of Kosovo and Serbia's efforts to join the EU. The European Parliament is expected to encourage Serbia to improve its internal political dialogue and Kosovo to deepen its judicial reforms. The EP has repeatedly urged the EU to resume dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina.
The situation in Serbia remains tense. Protests have been taking place there since last year, sparked by the tragic incident on 1 November in Novi Sad, when a railway station canopy collapsed and killed 16 people. There have also been reports of violence against anti-government demonstrators during the protests. Last month, the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee adopted a report stressing that the demands of the protesting students meet the criteria for EU membership.
Other topics this week will include the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the surrender of Germany on 8 May 1945. On this occasion, the EP will organise a solemn ceremony with the participation of veterans. On Thursday, a debate will also be held on the significance of the end of the war for modern European freedom, democracy and security.