State Secretary Metelko-Zgombić attends GAC

State Secretary Metelko-Zgombić attends GAC

State Secretary for Europe Andreja Metelko-Zgombić on Tuesday attended a meeting of European affairs ministers, focusing on the European Council meeting to be held on 21-22 October at which the EU leaders will discuss COVID-19, digital transformation, energy prices, migration, trade and external relations. The ministers reflected on the state of play of the Conference on the Future of Europe and discussed the second annual rule of law report.

Concerning COVID-19, Metelko-Zgombić supported the continued close cooperation among the member states, including the speeding up of certificate recognition with third countries. Underscoring disproportionate vaccination rates within the EU, she cited the issue of vaccine hesitancy, which requires raising the awareness among citizens and fighting misinformation.

In the context of digital transformation challenges, the state secretary stressed the importance of improving digital skills and creating a safe environment for offering digital services, as well as the role of small and mid-sized companies and innovators in global value chains.

Regarding energy prices, Croatia believes that the transition to a climate-neutral economy should not be threatened by temporary market imbalances and in that regard welcomes the Commission’s catalogue of measures. Croatia supports continued emphasis on renewable energy sources and efficiency, taking into account at the same time the importance of nuclear energy and natural gas.

Concerning migration, Metelko-Zgombić highlighted the importance of defining clear deadlines and additional financial support for the implementation of action plans for priority third countries, notably Bosnia and Herzegovina and Southeast Europe.

The Presidency provided updates on the preparations for the next plenary of the Conference, which is due to take place on 23 October. Metelko-Zgombić expressed satisfaction with the events held in Croatia.

Conclusively, the ministers exchanged views on the Commission’s second annual rule of law report, with a special emphasis on the effects of the pandemic on the rule of law. Croatia believes that the annual reports are a useful instrument and an opportunity to continue the open and constructive dialogue among the member states. Metelko-Zgombić shared Croatia’s experiences with ensuring the working of the Croatian parliament during the pandemic as well as the constitutional and legal control of restrictive measures. She expressed satisfaction over the upcoming discussion on the national chapter on Croatia in November.

 

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