Von der Leyen proposes a two-speed Europe ahead of summit

2026-02-09 21:51:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has suggested that countries willing to work on economic issues should continue in smaller groups if unanimity cannot be reached ahead of a key summit focused on strengthening the European economy strained between the US and China.

Von der Leyen stated that the aim is to push forward an "ambitious" economic agenda agreed by all 27 member states, but if this is not possible due to political differences, member states should turn to smaller coalitions.

Her comments come after Mario Draghi, one of the most influential voices in the European debate, called on the EU to work as a true union and urged European leaders to adopt a "pragmatic" federalist approach to joint projects, from energy to security.

"Our ambition must always be to reach agreement between all 27 member states," von der Leyen wrote in a letter to leaders on Monday.

"However, where a lack of progress or ambition risks undermining Europe's competitiveness or capacity to act, we should not hesitate to use the opportunities provided for in the treaties in the context of increased cooperation."

The principle of enhanced cooperation allows member states, provided that at least nine countries agree, to deepen integration without the rest of the member states.

Von der Leyen's comments mark a significant departure from the principle of consensus that guides EU institutions and open the door to a two-speed Europe.

European leaders will gather for an informal meeting on Thursday at Alden Biesen Castle.

Draghi will join the 27 countries along with former Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta.

On the eve of the meeting, European Council President António Costa told Euronews that the meeting would serve to focus attention on the implementation of the Draghi and Letta reports published in 2024 and to provide "clear political guidance" to leaders.

Ahead of the summit, a group of 10 countries will meet at the invitation of Germany, Italy and Belgium to establish a common line. France will participate, according to a diplomat.

In her letter, von der Leyen said the Commission aims to accelerate its simplification agenda, but urged co-legislators in the European Parliament to be constructive.

She also wrote that the executive will launch a new initiative to do away with "gold plating", which sees member states adding more bureaucracy on top of existing EU directives.

European companies have long criticized this practice, arguing that it increases costs and creates regulatory confusion for businesses operating in Europe./ CNA