Implications of Covid-19 for the external action of the EU: remarks by HR/VP Josep Borrell at the « European Parliament’s Committee »

April 21, 2020
Share on

Thank you for this opportunity to discuss the implications of this pandemic in EU foreign affairs and for your strong support to a joint EU response to this global crisis. Because it is really a global crisis which is affecting all geopolitical aspects. Last week in the Plenary, the European Parliament delivered on what citizens want to see from their representatives in Europe. That is to say, a strong capacity to build consensus and to take swift and bold decisions to respond to the COVID-crisis. You supported, virtually by unanimity, the Commission proposals for financial measures in support to Member States in this crisis.

Your report recommending a coordinated response to this crisis is a strong call for Europe to play a leading role, something we need because today there is quite an important lack of leadership in the world. Despite initial criticism, the truth is that the EU has been extremely active and productive in providing a response to the pandemic which can be illustrated in many tracks.

[ …] We have also been working in a global, multilateral response and we have developed what we call Team Europe. It is a package, together with the Commission and the Members States, to help other countries, especially the most vulnerable ones, and especially in Africa.

Read more

Full statement

Countries covered:

  • Algeria
  • Egypt
  • Israel
  • Jordan
  • Lebanon
  • Libya
  • Morocco
  • Palestine *
  • Syria *
  • Tunisia