State Secretary Metelko-Zgombić participates in videoconference of European affairs ministers

State Secretary for Europe Andreja Metelko-Zgombić participated in an informal videoconference of European affairs ministers, which focused on preparations for the European Council videoconference

State Secretary for Europe Andreja Metelko-Zgombić participated in an informal videoconference of European affairs ministers, which focused on preparations for the European Council videoconference to be held on 25 and 26 February, exchange of views on the European Democracy Action Plan, preparations for the Conference on the Future of Europe, and the status of EU-UK relations.

In the context of the upcoming European Council videoconference, the ministers addressed the main challenges of coordinating EU response to the pandemic, including a timely and predictable vaccine production and distribution, as well as the implications of the spread of new viral strains on the freedom of movement within the Union. Metelko-Zgombić underlined the importance Croatia attaches to a coordinated and solidary EU response, where the health of citizens and ensuring a safe and effective vaccine have to remain in the focus of all efforts. It is also important to maintain a functional internal market by using the so-called “green corridors”. Croatia is open to further work on EU-level vaccination certificates. In the context of detecting new viral strains, Croatia supports the Commission’s efforts to mobilise resources to that end, including the proposed HERA incubators. Highlighting the importance of global solidarity in vaccine procurement, Metelko-Zgombić stressed the importance of assisting the countries of the Western Balkans. The pandemic underscored the need to strengthen the Union’s resilience to such threats and future health crises, which the EU leaders will discuss this week. The state secretary reiterated Croatia’s support for the Commission’s proposal package aimed at instating a stronger and more efficient health crisis preparedness and response system. Concerning the issue of European security and defence, which will also be on the EU leaders’ agenda, Metelko-Zgombić underlined Croatia’s support for the Strategic Compass as an opportunity to shape the Union’s long-term identity and ambitions in the new geopolitical and security context, with the aim of strengthening its capacity to act independently and in partnership where possible.

The European Democracy Action Plan, published by the Commission in December, has been recognized as an important instrument in boosting the resilience of European democracy in the context of digital transformation, while preserving the fundamental rights and freedoms. Metelko-Zgombić underscored Croatia’s support for the Action Plan, which includes the strengthening of existing mechanism as well as new initiatives aimed at bolstering the integrity of election processes and the democratic participation of citizens, supporting free and independent media, and fighting disinformation.

The Portuguese presidency and EC Vice-President Dubravka Šuica reported on the status of interinstitutional talks on the Conference on the Future of Europe and the steps taken to launch it soon, for which they have Croatia’s full support.

Member states and the Commission also reflected on the status of the EU-UK relations and preparation for the coming onto force of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement as well as the establishment of an effective implementation monitoring mechanism.

 

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