EU Member States opt for a conservative budget proposal for 2025
The Member States of the European Union have proposed a budget for 2025 that includes commitments totaling just over EUR 191 billion and effective payments amounting to EUR 146 billion. This cautious approach is part of the Council's strategy as it prepares for the forthcoming budget negotiations with the European Parliament.
As always, the ambition level of the Member States is lower than that of the European Commission. In June, it proposed a 2025 budget in which the EU would enter into financial commitments worth 200 billion euros. The actual payments were estimated by the EU executive at more than 150 billion euros.
The Member States say they are opting for a cautious approach and they therefore want to adjust the amounts downwards. "The proposed budget wants to play it safe and leave room for unforeseen circumstances," said Hungarian minister Peter Banai, who will conduct budget negotiations with Parliament.
The European budget must also be able to continue to guarantee the EU's financial solidarity with Ukraine, the Member States argue. An instrument has already been set up that provides for the payment of 50 billion euros in loans and grants for Kiev between 2024 and 2027, but that money must of course be able to be set aside.
The newly constituted European Parliament has yet to determine its position on the European budget. The deadline for a negotiated agreement with the member states is November 18.
© PHOTO NICOLAS ROSES/ABACAPRESS.COM
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