Von der Leyen guarantees second term at EU helm

(MENAFN) Ursula von der Leyen has been confirmed for a second term as President of the European Commission, following a decisive vote in the European Parliament on Thursday. The German politician secured her reelection with 401 votes in favor out of 707 total MEPs, while 284 opposed her appointment and 15 abstained. This new five-year term will see von der Leyen continuing her leadership of the European Union.

In her hour-long speech before the vote, von der Leyen outlined her priorities for the upcoming term, emphasizing a commitment to a democratic and resilient Europe. She highlighted plans to enhance housing, competitiveness, and defense within the European Union. A significant focus will be on strengthening the European Union's defense capabilities, with von der Leyen proposing the establishment of a "defense union" and a unified defense market. This ambition aligns with her broader goal of turning the European Union into a more integrated defense entity.

Von der Leyen also reaffirmed her dedication to climate action and environmental protection, issues that were central to her initial campaign in 2019. Additionally, she vowed continued support for Ukraine, signaling that Kiev's potential accession to the European Union could be advanced during her new term.

On the domestic front, von der Leyen has promised to reform the European Union’s common budget to enhance its efficiency and support small and medium-sized enterprises as well as farmers across the bloc. She also proposed the creation of a "European Democracy Shield" and aims to bolster cooperation among member states to address cyber threats and foreign interference.

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