EU leaders demand urgent action on energy prices
European Union leaders have called for urgent measures to curb rising energy prices, reduce regulatory burdens and strengthen the bloc’s competitiveness, according to European Council summit conclusions released early Friday.
The leaders said the current energy situation required a coordinated European response, including targeted and temporary measures that take account of the circumstances of individual member states.
They welcomed plans to extend temporary state aid for the industrial sectors most exposed to high energy costs, improve refinery efficiency across the EU and introduce voluntary measures to pool energy demand.
The European Commission was also urged to examine additional short-term measures to address soaring energy prices.
Single market reforms in focus
On competitiveness, EU leaders called for decisive progress in removing remaining barriers within the single market, simplifying regulations and reducing administrative burdens, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.
They also urged progress in negotiations on key legislative proposals, including the Industrial Accelerator Act and the European grids package, with the aim of concluding talks by the end of 2026.
The council stressed the importance of maintaining a well-functioning, transparent and predictable carbon market, while preserving the emissions trading system as a central instrument of the bloc’s energy transition.
Leaders seek budget deal before 2028
On the EU’s next long-term budget, leaders called for an agreement before the end of 2026 to ensure funding reaches beneficiaries without interruption from January 2028.
The discussions come as the bloc seeks to address economic pressures while strengthening its industrial base and investment capacity.
Enlargement remains tied to reforms
EU leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enlargement, describing it as a strategic investment in peace, security, stability and prosperity.
They stressed that accession must remain based on each candidate country’s progress in meeting the bloc’s membership requirements.
The European Council also welcomed ongoing work on Montenegro’s accession treaty, noting that further progress would depend on the implementation of reforms.
Source:AA
