1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:03,000 Brussels Live Transcribed and translated by AI 2 00:00:22,280 --> 00:00:25,792 Good afternoon and welcome to our midday briefing. 3 00:00:25,880 --> 00:00:31,088 We have a few announcements for you before we start with your questions and, 4 00:00:31,155 --> 00:00:36,000 unfortunately, we start with a very sad news. 5 00:00:36,200 --> 00:00:43,535 You've all heard about the train crash this morning in Spain, and the European 6 00:00:43,617 --> 00:00:49,135 Commission mourns the tragic loss of many lives. 7 00:00:49,280 --> 00:00:56,461 Following the rail accident on the Madrid-Andalusia high-speed rail line in Spain, 8 00:00:56,540 --> 00:01:02,523 our thoughts and our feelings are with the victims and their families and friends, 9 00:01:02,631 --> 00:01:10,023 and all those affected. And the Commission, together with the European Union Agency 10 00:01:10,098 --> 00:01:15,541 for Railways, is closely following the situation, and we stand ready to support the 11 00:01:15,614 --> 00:01:21,913 Spanish authorities in any way that may be needed. 12 00:01:22,100 --> 00:01:30,106 Now, on a different subject, unfortunately, a happy subject is to welcome our groups 13 00:01:30,229 --> 00:01:38,909 of visitors here in the press room and today we have a group of Danish high school 14 00:01:39,016 --> 00:01:48,404 students on a visit learning about the jobs important, very important, job of 15 00:01:48,518 --> 00:01:56,633 interpreters and translators without whom we could not do our work on a daily basis. 16 00:01:56,780 --> 00:02:02,390 And you are preparing for that important work. 17 00:02:02,540 --> 00:02:08,627 We hope you enjoy your time here with us in the European Commission and in the press 18 00:02:08,693 --> 00:02:13,705 room now. And with this, we can take your questions. 19 00:02:13,820 --> 00:02:15,620 Let me start here in the middle. 20 00:02:18,560 --> 00:02:22,846 Hello, good afternoon. Thank you, Paula. Gerard Descaches with the Catalan News 21 00:02:22,909 --> 00:02:27,906 Agency. It's regarding today's tragic accident in Andalusia, well, in Toledo. 22 00:02:27,980 --> 00:02:33,284 I wanted to know if President von der Leyen has spoken with Prime Minister Pedro 23 00:02:33,346 --> 00:02:38,150 Sánchez and, if so, what was the readout of the conversation. 24 00:02:38,240 --> 00:02:42,976 And if, by any chance, President von der Leyen or any of the commissioners, such as 25 00:02:43,052 --> 00:02:49,489 Commissioner Rivera, and Commissioner Seix de Costas, would travel to decide as a 26 00:02:49,571 --> 00:02:53,185 show of solidarity or to learn more about the accident. 27 00:02:53,240 --> 00:02:54,440 Thank you. 28 00:02:54,680 --> 00:03:00,629 Thank you. Well, the President, President von der Leyen, received with great sadness 29 00:03:00,734 --> 00:03:09,745 this news. She posted very, very swiftly after she heard about this tragic accident. 30 00:03:09,800 --> 00:03:17,768 You may see her post this morning. She didn't have the opportunity yet to speak with 31 00:03:17,855 --> 00:03:24,044 Prime Minister Sánchez. President von der Leyen is currently traveling to Canada 32 00:03:24,220 --> 00:03:34,289 and, but she had the occasion and wanted absolutely to post to convey her feelings 33 00:03:34,394 --> 00:03:43,238 and her mourning to all the victims of this very tragic accident this morning. 34 00:03:43,400 --> 00:03:44,600 Yes, please. 35 00:03:51,320 --> 00:03:54,572 Now, Bruno Fortea for Catalan Public Radio. 36 00:03:54,620 --> 00:04:00,051 This is the second major train accident that happens in the same line in just a few 37 00:04:00,109 --> 00:04:06,141 months, involving dozens of deaths. There was also a few months ago another deadly 38 00:04:06,200 --> 00:04:12,067 train accident close to Barcelona. I would like to know if the European Commission 39 00:04:12,124 --> 00:04:16,669 has asked the Spanish authorities for some explanations and if you are concerned 40 00:04:16,730 --> 00:04:19,460 about the train security in Spain. Thank you. 41 00:04:21,440 --> 00:04:28,436 As. I mentioned at the very beginning, we are, of course, together with the European 42 00:04:28,504 --> 00:04:33,920 Union Agency for Railways, following the situation. 43 00:04:34,040 --> 00:04:40,390 And on that basis, we are also ready to support the Spanish authorities in any way 44 00:04:40,452 --> 00:04:46,158 that may be needed. It's too early, absolutely too early, to draw any conclusions. 45 00:04:46,220 --> 00:04:52,474 But through the agency, we will be looking more closely and establish also the 46 00:04:52,548 --> 00:04:59,240 contacts which may be required in such tragic circumstances. 47 00:05:00,980 --> 00:05:02,180 Yes, Antoine. 48 00:05:08,360 --> 00:05:11,840 Thank you, Paula. Antoine Moutofart, Japanese Public TV and HK. 49 00:05:11,900 --> 00:05:17,964 Since in your announcement you already kind of mentioned that you are ready, you're 50 00:05:18,035 --> 00:05:22,311 standing ready to support the Spanish authorities. 51 00:05:22,400 --> 00:05:29,693 Do you already know what you could do, what you tend to do, and also you in the past 52 00:05:29,777 --> 00:05:37,073 question you already mentioned a kind of what would be the following steps about a 53 00:05:37,126 --> 00:05:41,665 possible potential investigation. But have you already heard anything about the 54 00:05:41,720 --> 00:05:47,243 potential error human error mentioned by the Spanish authorities? 55 00:05:47,300 --> 00:05:48,500 Thank you. 56 00:05:48,740 --> 00:05:54,843 Thank you, Antoine. And Anna Kaiser will remind us what is the role of the European 57 00:05:54,897 --> 00:05:58,487 Union Agency for Railways and in such a context. 58 00:05:58,580 --> 00:06:05,903 Anna Kaiser. So, indeed, first, what kind of assistance can the Commission give us, 59 00:06:05,954 --> 00:06:09,924 as Paula was saying, we stand ready to provide any assistance that is requested, 60 00:06:10,003 --> 00:06:15,140 that is required. So, from, and then I'm here only talking about the transport side, 61 00:06:15,228 --> 00:06:22,994 but obviously when there's an acute crisis situation, DG ECHO can stand in to help 62 00:06:23,074 --> 00:06:28,879 as well if so required. So, from the transport side, obviously we can offer various 63 00:06:28,946 --> 00:06:36,039 kinds of technical help, but really in the current, in today's accident, we are 64 00:06:36,092 --> 00:06:41,076 still at the very, very early stages of determining what happened. 65 00:06:41,180 --> 00:06:47,194 And here we want to give also the space and possibility for the Spanish authorities 66 00:06:47,248 --> 00:06:52,572 to do this work and for them to communicate and for them to be in touch with our 67 00:06:52,640 --> 00:06:56,957 ERA, our agency, railways agency as well as with our services. 68 00:06:57,020 --> 00:07:01,818 And we will then take the work forward when we have a better visibility, better 69 00:07:01,858 --> 00:07:05,594 understanding of what has happened, what kind of assistance would be needed. 70 00:07:05,660 --> 00:07:13,580 But this is the process. So therefore, given that this massively tragic accident is 71 00:07:13,760 --> 00:07:22,720 literally unfolding still at the moment and we're still waiting to hear what. 72 00:07:22,880 --> 00:07:29,676 Final consequences, human and other, it might eventually have we stay in touch with 73 00:07:29,757 --> 00:07:33,887 the Spanish authorities to get their full reading and understanding what has 74 00:07:33,932 --> 00:07:42,545 happened first and then it's our role to step in when and if requested. 75 00:07:42,680 --> 00:07:52,820 Other questions to Anna Kaiser? Jorge. 76 00:07:55,760 --> 00:08:00,143 Yes, it's on energy, but maybe it's more for you, Paula, because we're once again 77 00:08:00,200 --> 00:08:05,005 seeing reports that the United States and Russia are actively discussing the 78 00:08:05,067 --> 00:08:09,933 reopening of the Nord Stream pipeline and the resumption of Russian gas flows into 79 00:08:10,012 --> 00:08:14,286 Europe after the war in Ukraine. Comes to an end. 80 00:08:14,360 --> 00:08:20,444 Can you categorically rule out that after the war, after the peace deal, regardless 81 00:08:20,501 --> 00:08:25,895 of how this peace deal looks like, the Nord Stream pipeline will be reopened and 82 00:08:25,959 --> 00:08:30,142 Russian gas will flow again into Europe? Can you really tell the U.S. 83 00:08:30,200 --> 00:08:33,260 and Russia to forget all about this? Thank you. 84 00:08:35,000 --> 00:08:42,832 Thank you, Jorge. I think our position on this topic has been made very, very clear 85 00:08:42,920 --> 00:08:48,285 by the President, by President von der Leyen, at several occasions recently, most 86 00:08:48,355 --> 00:08:53,534 recently last week at the Parliament's European Parliament's plenary, and before 87 00:08:53,585 --> 00:08:56,473 that in the margins of the European Council. 88 00:08:56,540 --> 00:09:03,460 And there she was referring specifically to the sanctions that we have and that are 89 00:09:03,530 --> 00:09:11,213 there because of the war. And the President said very clearly that energy sanctions 90 00:09:11,330 --> 00:09:20,283 will stay until Russia stops this war. So the position is absolutely clear. 91 00:09:20,480 --> 00:09:29,892 Made in the occasion of the plenary at the Parliament last week and as said also in 92 00:09:29,968 --> 00:09:38,868 the context of the European Council, we know far too well the hidden costs of being 93 00:09:38,969 --> 00:09:43,679 dependent of Russia for the purchase of fossil fuels. 94 00:09:43,760 --> 00:09:48,573 They have been weaponized, and we have been paying the price. 95 00:09:48,680 --> 00:09:52,580 So we do not forget that. Jorge. 96 00:09:55,400 --> 00:10:00,050 Yes, thank you. But as you said, the President spoke about maintaining the sanctions 97 00:10:00,104 --> 00:10:04,793 until the war comes to an end. What's been discussed now is the scenario after the 98 00:10:04,863 --> 00:10:08,592 war, when peace returns, hopefully to Ukraine one day. 99 00:10:08,660 --> 00:10:14,957 So can you rule out that after the war, when peace returns, the Nord Stream pipeline 100 00:10:15,022 --> 00:10:19,600 will remain shut down and Russian gas will not flow into Europe? 101 00:10:19,700 --> 00:10:20,900 Thank you. 102 00:10:21,200 --> 00:10:24,260 Well, first of all, we want to see the war ending. 103 00:10:24,320 --> 00:10:30,757 That is the absolute priority. And on your second point, as I said, we have learned 104 00:10:30,854 --> 00:10:36,006 with or without war, we have learned the price and we have been paying the price of 105 00:10:36,089 --> 00:10:42,203 being dependent on the imports of fossil fuels from Russia. 106 00:10:42,320 --> 00:10:46,838 Yes. And just to remind that we have the Repower legislation in force. 107 00:10:46,940 --> 00:10:54,464 So that is not tight to sanctions or any geopolitical events either. 108 00:10:54,560 --> 00:10:57,793 It is already the legislation is in force, it's been implemented. 109 00:10:57,860 --> 00:11:04,248 So regardless of what happens, we are facing out Russian gas and LNG from the 110 00:11:04,310 --> 00:11:10,513 European market. And the last shipments should be finished by the end of next year. 111 00:11:10,580 --> 00:11:15,685 And as Paula said, our position on Nord Stream has been very clear since the 112 00:11:15,779 --> 00:11:23,485 beginning of this whole project. It's not for us to decide whether it will be 113 00:11:23,563 --> 00:11:29,708 functioning in the European Union or not. And let us, and thank you very much, 114 00:11:29,776 --> 00:11:32,723 indeed, Anna Kaiser, we have legislation in place. 115 00:11:32,780 --> 00:11:38,922 And on top of it, it's a good occasion to remind ourselves who has cut the supplies 116 00:11:38,981 --> 00:11:48,626 in the first place. It was Russia in case this is being forgotten in the meantime. 117 00:11:48,920 --> 00:11:50,120 Lawrence. 118 00:11:51,560 --> 00:11:57,977 Thanks. I'm a little surprised, Paula. Precisely because of what Anna Kaiser said, 119 00:11:58,017 --> 00:12:02,799 that we do have this legislation. I would have thought it would be very easy to say, 120 00:12:02,840 --> 00:12:08,518 yes, we can rule out ever having Nord Stream again or ever having gas because we 121 00:12:08,589 --> 00:12:12,181 have legislation for it. But you didn't say that. 122 00:12:12,260 --> 00:12:18,380 And we know that the U.S. is pushing very hard for energy sanctions to be lifted as 123 00:12:18,500 --> 00:12:22,183 part of a deal. So I'm just going to give you the chance again. 124 00:12:22,220 --> 00:12:28,832 Can you rule out that Nord Stream will ever be reinvented with another name or the 125 00:12:28,885 --> 00:12:35,267 same name and piping gas into Europe? Can you rule out that we will be importing 126 00:12:35,313 --> 00:12:36,740 Russian gas in the future? 127 00:12:37,340 --> 00:12:43,380 If you prefer that I reply the same thing with those words, yes, we have legislation 128 00:12:43,434 --> 00:12:51,072 in place, which prevents us from resuming the imports of fossil fuels, of gas in 129 00:12:51,211 --> 00:12:58,940 particular, from Russia. Other questions? Yes, Barbara. 130 00:13:01,880 --> 00:13:05,864 Thank you. It's linked to Ukraine, so if I may. 131 00:13:06,200 --> 00:13:10,967 Zelensky opened a door for discussion on our Russian security guarantees in the 132 00:13:11,056 --> 00:13:16,216 context of a peace deal. Something that was previously a red line for Kyiv and also 133 00:13:16,284 --> 00:13:20,313 for its European allies. So I would wondered if you have a comment on that. 134 00:13:20,360 --> 00:13:24,909 Does the Commission believe that such a discussion about Russian security guarantees 135 00:13:24,980 --> 00:13:27,567 can be held in the context of peace negotiations? 136 00:13:27,620 --> 00:13:28,820 Thank you. 137 00:13:29,180 --> 00:13:36,417 Thank you, Barbara. So you know that there have been different discussions notably 138 00:13:36,533 --> 00:13:43,786 in Miami, most recently in Oslo. Different discussions on how to put an end to this 139 00:13:43,843 --> 00:13:48,561 war, whether EU has participated. We will not go into the details of those 140 00:13:48,614 --> 00:13:53,463 discussions, but it's clear and it's been said a number of times that as part of 141 00:13:53,530 --> 00:13:59,604 those discussions, the subject of territory, the subject of security guarantees for 142 00:13:59,686 --> 00:14:08,546 Ukraine and the subject of prosperity for Ukraine has been the topic. 143 00:14:08,780 --> 00:14:09,980 Yes, please. 144 00:14:12,500 --> 00:14:16,579 Thank you so much, Paula. Zoryana Stepanenko, Radio Free Europe, Ukraine. 145 00:14:16,640 --> 00:14:23,066 Regarding the recent call to Vladimir Putin that the leaders of Finland and Norway 146 00:14:23,180 --> 00:14:27,743 have made, so how would you assess the outcome of that call given that Vladimir 147 00:14:27,800 --> 00:14:32,178 Putin doesn't seem to even tend to change in his position? 148 00:14:32,240 --> 00:14:36,118 So do you see that those calls might make any sense? 149 00:14:36,200 --> 00:14:41,957 And another short question, if I may, also we heard from a Finnish president, 150 00:14:42,007 --> 00:14:48,052 Alexander Stubb, yesterday that in the upcoming talks in Abu Dhabi, the Europeans 151 00:14:48,168 --> 00:14:53,196 may take part. Though we heard recently from the Kremlin spokesperson that it's 152 00:14:53,258 --> 00:14:57,688 going to be trilateral talks. So is there any update judging from this statement 153 00:14:57,731 --> 00:15:00,973 that we've heard yesterday from Finnish president and, yeah, do you have any 154 00:15:01,015 --> 00:15:04,349 information that European actually can join those talks in Abu Dhabi? 155 00:15:04,400 --> 00:15:05,600 Thank you. 156 00:15:06,140 --> 00:15:16,940 Thank you. And yes, we know about the call, which took place between President 157 00:15:17,000 --> 00:15:24,476 Stubb, Prime Minister Stubb, and President Putin, which was which took place on 158 00:15:24,560 --> 00:15:32,854 bilateral basis. And is a follow-up to the meeting in Oslo of last week on the 20th 159 00:15:32,941 --> 00:15:42,477 of October. And as we have said before, the EU is united in our commitment not only 160 00:15:42,572 --> 00:15:49,780 to put an end to this horrific war, but also to achieve peace that will be just and 161 00:15:49,860 --> 00:15:56,676 that will be sustainable. This is the stance that we have been defending on the 162 00:15:56,780 --> 00:16:05,631 ongoing talks. And what is important here is that we keep a united message with this 163 00:16:05,728 --> 00:16:11,960 regard with whatever talks are held with President Putin. 164 00:16:12,080 --> 00:16:19,893 Now, with regard to upcoming discussions, we have no further information to share at 165 00:16:19,980 --> 00:16:26,300 this point. But also worth recalling, again, what has been our position on this and 166 00:16:26,390 --> 00:16:29,180 Christian, you will help me here. 167 00:16:30,860 --> 00:16:39,009 Yes, just to maybe remind of our of our united commitment that Paula just mentioned. 168 00:16:39,140 --> 00:16:42,937 Let me refer back to the European Council that made very clear that it remains to 169 00:16:42,995 --> 00:16:46,893 determine to further increase pressure on Russia so that it stops. 170 00:16:46,940 --> 00:16:52,556 It's a brutal war of aggression and engages in meaningful negotiations towards 171 00:16:52,664 --> 00:16:57,622 peace. The Council also underlined the importance of further sustained efforts to 172 00:16:57,688 --> 00:17:05,358 provide military support to Ukraine so we keep standing by Ukraine and unfortunately 173 00:17:05,480 --> 00:17:12,658 so far Russia has not shown signs that it is willing to end its war of aggression. 174 00:17:12,740 --> 00:17:20,120 But of course we're engaging in diplomatic efforts in this context. 175 00:17:23,600 --> 00:17:26,660 Another question to Christian. Oui, Olivier. 176 00:17:30,500 --> 00:17:34,341 Yes, hello Olivier Baud, OFL. This is more of a question for you. 177 00:17:34,412 --> 00:17:38,693 President Zelensky has just arrived in the Netherlands. 178 00:17:38,796 --> 00:17:43,303 I was wondering whether any contact or meeting was possibly planned between the 179 00:17:43,352 --> 00:17:45,980 President and Mr Zelensky today before she departs for Canada. 180 00:17:47,000 --> 00:17:50,360 Sorry, Olivier, I couldn’t hear the last part of your question. 181 00:17:50,720 --> 00:17:56,600 If a meeting or contact is planned between President Zelensky and President von der 182 00:17:56,682 --> 00:18:00,822 Leyen before she leaves for Canada, I do not know if it is tonight or if she has 183 00:18:00,868 --> 00:18:02,068 already left. 184 00:18:02,240 --> 00:18:09,197 Yes, thank you. Listen, President von der Leyen and President Zelensky are in very, 185 00:18:09,268 --> 00:18:15,943 very frequent and regular contact. Today, it may be a little more difficult because, 186 00:18:15,988 --> 00:18:26,394 as I said at the beginning, the President is on her way or rather in the air, 187 00:18:26,510 --> 00:18:33,943 heading to Canada. But they remain in regular contact, whether directly or through 188 00:18:34,039 --> 00:18:37,820 their respective teams. Gérald. 189 00:18:40,760 --> 00:18:43,588 Thanks, Paula. It's a follow-up on the call from yesterday. 190 00:18:43,640 --> 00:18:49,232 You said that we know about the call. Did you know about the call before the call 191 00:18:49,280 --> 00:18:52,442 was taken, like where was the Commission informed? 192 00:18:52,520 --> 00:18:59,091 And was the Commission informed after by President Stubb on the content, like 193 00:18:59,153 --> 00:19:05,703 briefed, let's say? And you also said this is a united commitment from the EU, but 194 00:19:05,769 --> 00:19:08,960 at the same time we had European leaders met. 195 00:19:09,080 --> 00:19:16,295 Did Danish Prime Minister that. Who didn't seem super happy about the initiative? 196 00:19:16,400 --> 00:19:23,865 Do you think do you still think that this initiative by Stubb is still has the 197 00:19:24,020 --> 00:19:28,940 united backing. By the Commission and the leaders as well? 198 00:19:29,480 --> 00:19:34,154 Thank you, Gérald. Yes, we were informed before the call. 199 00:19:34,280 --> 00:19:42,580 And as I said earlier on, what is really important here is that we remain united 200 00:19:42,668 --> 00:19:48,443 behind the same message to be conveyed by President Putin. 201 00:19:48,560 --> 00:19:55,229 And unfortunately, as also Christian reminded, we are not seeing a lot of readiness 202 00:19:55,340 --> 00:20:02,427 to engage in such discussions by President Putin himself. 203 00:20:02,540 --> 00:20:05,360 Other questions? Yes, please. 204 00:20:08,060 --> 00:20:10,880 Thank you, Gina Smylek from the New York Times. 205 00:20:10,940 --> 00:20:16,181 President Zelensky has said repeatedly and repeated yesterday that he and Ukraine 206 00:20:16,232 --> 00:20:24,099 are waiting on the sign-off of Pete Hegseth to receive some Patriot missiles, that 207 00:20:24,149 --> 00:20:28,145 have been held up in the U.S. I was wondering if you guys have had any if anyone at 208 00:20:28,190 --> 00:20:32,466 the Commission or the EU has had interactions with your partners in the U.S. 209 00:20:32,540 --> 00:20:36,860 surrounding that sign-off by Mr. Hegseth, and if so, you know what the hold-up is? 210 00:20:39,740 --> 00:20:44,920 Thank you, Gina. I don't have any comments on this to offer. 211 00:20:45,080 --> 00:20:50,060 In this discussions in this talks that have been taking place, as said, be it in 212 00:20:50,120 --> 00:20:53,445 Miami, be it in Oslo, many issues are raised. 213 00:20:53,540 --> 00:20:59,024 I don't exclude that this topic could have been raised, but I have really no further 214 00:20:59,075 --> 00:21:05,068 information on this. Other questions for us today? 215 00:21:05,180 --> 00:21:06,380 Yes. 216 00:21:08,360 --> 00:21:10,832 Sorry, Paula, I'm just Angela Skujans from Euronews. 217 00:21:10,880 --> 00:21:13,357 I'm just trying to follow up from my colleague's question. 218 00:21:13,400 --> 00:21:17,114 So is it that you don't know whether or not the European anyone from the European 219 00:21:17,152 --> 00:21:21,865 Commission has pressed Pete Hegseth about the Patriots, or that it hasn't he hasn't 220 00:21:21,920 --> 00:21:23,780 been pressed from your side? 221 00:21:24,440 --> 00:21:28,820 No information about this. Yes. Stefan. 222 00:21:31,520 --> 00:21:35,540 It's on probably more on the enlargement on Serbian elections. 223 00:21:35,720 --> 00:21:40,100 Then let me just make sure that we don't have more questions for Christian today. 224 00:21:40,160 --> 00:21:41,540 We do. Please. 225 00:21:47,120 --> 00:21:49,183 Good morning. Pietro Guastamacchia from Rapporteurs. 226 00:21:49,220 --> 00:21:53,083 A follow-up on interceptors, but this time the European one. 227 00:21:53,180 --> 00:22:00,704 Zelensky had said that the 10. Percent of the interceptor laying in the E5 arsenal 228 00:22:00,791 --> 00:22:04,061 would be sufficient for Ukraine to make through the winter. 229 00:22:04,100 --> 00:22:09,236 So if you don't have any information of whether you have put pressure on the U.S. 230 00:22:09,380 --> 00:22:13,575 for delivering interceptors, have you been putting pressure on European capitals to 231 00:22:13,640 --> 00:22:15,500 deliver interceptors to Ukraine? Thank you. 232 00:22:18,260 --> 00:22:19,580 Do you want to talk on it? Yes. 233 00:22:21,260 --> 00:22:27,689 Look, of course, air defense remains the key priority for Ukraine, as we see the 234 00:22:27,774 --> 00:22:34,516 attacks every day, unfortunately. We have already approved procurement plans worth 235 00:22:34,589 --> 00:22:37,780 28. 3 billion under the Ukraine Support Loan. 236 00:22:37,940 --> 00:22:41,731 Which includes purchases of Patriot missiles from future U.S. 237 00:22:41,780 --> 00:22:46,889 production, but of course this takes time, and this is why we have repeatedly called 238 00:22:46,970 --> 00:22:53,488 on the HIVP has also called on member states in different formats or on member 239 00:22:53,561 --> 00:22:59,635 states, but also on partners, international partners, to supply missiles from their 240 00:22:59,692 --> 00:23:04,699 own stocks to Ukraine. And of course these efforts are ongoing. 241 00:23:04,760 --> 00:23:11,240 Also for sure with you to the next to the next Foreign Affairs and Defense Councils. 242 00:23:13,220 --> 00:23:14,420 Wait, I have it. 243 00:23:16,760 --> 00:23:19,098 Thank you. David Carretta, Radio Radicale. 244 00:23:19,160 --> 00:23:26,259 On the 10 of September, if I remember well, you announced that part of the loan, six 245 00:23:26,323 --> 00:23:33,080 more than six billions, would have been granted to Ukraine. 246 00:23:33,200 --> 00:23:37,239 To buy interceptor Patriot interceptor PAC-3. 247 00:23:37,340 --> 00:23:44,635 So I'm wondering how you how it's possible that you don't know if the U.S. 248 00:23:44,780 --> 00:23:53,655 are not delivering or not sighing the authorization to deliver interceptor to 249 00:23:53,788 --> 00:23:58,890 Ukraine. Since I mean, you are putting some money on that. 250 00:23:58,940 --> 00:24:00,140 Thank you. 251 00:24:00,260 --> 00:24:03,736 And now the question that we had been asked before was a different one, was to what 252 00:24:03,777 --> 00:24:08,634 extent this had been discussed in the talks with the U.S. 253 00:24:08,780 --> 00:24:11,074 and to that, I said I have no further information. 254 00:24:11,120 --> 00:24:16,797 I cannot exclude that it has been raised. Now, you referred to the loan and the 255 00:24:16,880 --> 00:24:21,779 tranche that in September was approved indeed. 256 00:24:21,860 --> 00:24:28,199 Whether derogation, so allowing for the acquisition, also of Patriots, derogation 257 00:24:28,280 --> 00:24:35,382 because it does not come from the EU or from Ukraine for this matter. 258 00:24:35,480 --> 00:24:41,840 And there I do not have directly the information of where we are on that, but I will 259 00:24:41,960 --> 00:24:51,140 then call on Thomas to give us the latest since we have approved that disbursement. 260 00:24:51,800 --> 00:24:56,780 Thanks, Paula. And just indeed to put it into context, I mean, the Ukraine loan has 261 00:24:56,823 --> 00:25:01,684 specifically been designed with the necessary flexibility to allow for derogation. 262 00:25:01,760 --> 00:25:07,265 You're right. This was granted in December, including for interceptors. 263 00:25:07,340 --> 00:25:12,740 These are absolutely crucial products for Ukraine to be able to defend itself. 264 00:25:12,800 --> 00:25:18,955 This is why, of course, the urgent delivery of these equipments is absolutely 265 00:25:19,042 --> 00:25:24,390 crucial. Work is ongoing, and we do expect that those interceptors will be delivered 266 00:25:24,440 --> 00:25:25,640 soon. 267 00:25:27,500 --> 00:25:32,540 Good. Now that we have Thomas with us, Jan. 268 00:25:38,600 --> 00:25:45,099 Afternoon, Jaco Picherle, Bloomberg News. Our question regarding the AI Act requests 269 00:25:45,260 --> 00:25:52,980 for information. Several. Requests for information were sent to all the major AI 270 00:25:53,080 --> 00:25:57,800 labs, including some that were involved in cyber incidents over the summer. 271 00:25:57,860 --> 00:26:04,069 I think to remember the deadline for most of these companies to answer such requests 272 00:26:04,168 --> 00:26:11,451 was last week. I just wanted to make sure that I asked whether the Commission had 273 00:26:11,522 --> 00:26:15,080 received every single answer to its requests. 274 00:26:16,760 --> 00:26:21,393 Thanks, Jan. Positive news here. So indeed two different sets of RFIs. 275 00:26:21,500 --> 00:26:26,199 Just to briefly recall, although you know it definitely, so one was focused on 276 00:26:26,300 --> 00:26:30,486 safety and security, another one on copyright-related issues. 277 00:26:30,560 --> 00:26:37,750 Two more than 30 companies I can confirm that some deadlines have been prolonged for 278 00:26:37,807 --> 00:26:41,916 some reasons, but for all those that have expired, I can confirm that the Commission 279 00:26:41,960 --> 00:26:46,760 has received the information and we're currently assessing it. 280 00:26:46,880 --> 00:26:48,200 Jan. A follow-up. 281 00:26:50,120 --> 00:26:52,296 I mean, you kind of planted the question yourself. 282 00:26:52,340 --> 00:26:55,580 Which ones have been prolonged? 283 00:26:56,960 --> 00:27:00,626 This is a bilateral discussion. We're having with certain companies. 284 00:27:00,680 --> 00:27:04,145 We of course need to make sure that all companies receive the RFI in order to be 285 00:27:04,198 --> 00:27:08,670 able to respond to it. Work is ongoing with a few of them, but the vast majority of 286 00:27:08,720 --> 00:27:13,595 replies have been received by the Commission. 287 00:27:13,820 --> 00:27:18,666 Good. And Razia, do you want to come in on this topic? 288 00:27:18,740 --> 00:27:19,520 Go ahead. 289 00:27:19,520 --> 00:27:24,260 Thank you. Razia Akoch, AFP news agency. I don't know if in your reply you answered 290 00:27:24,303 --> 00:27:26,557 the question for some reasons. Could you elaborate? 291 00:27:26,600 --> 00:27:30,802 And I just want to insist on the point of could you name the companies? 292 00:27:30,860 --> 00:27:32,060 Thank you. 293 00:27:32,360 --> 00:27:34,182 Thanks. I'll not elaborate on the reasons. 294 00:27:34,220 --> 00:27:38,228 Again, bilateral discussions we're having with the companies on which companies? 295 00:27:38,300 --> 00:27:41,692 No, we never comment on which company has received an RFI or not. 296 00:27:41,780 --> 00:27:43,901 The list would be in any case pretty long on this one. 297 00:27:43,940 --> 00:27:47,297 It's more than 30 companies, 35 if I'm not mistaken. 298 00:27:47,360 --> 00:27:48,680 So quite a long list. 299 00:27:50,720 --> 00:27:55,347 Yes. Razia. I just wanted to fact-check you, not never. 300 00:27:55,400 --> 00:27:57,200 You have in the past. Thank you. 301 00:27:59,240 --> 00:28:02,180 Not under the AI Act, at least not from my side here on the podium. 302 00:28:04,640 --> 00:28:10,460 Consistency. On this side. Okay. Other questions to Jan? 303 00:28:15,080 --> 00:28:16,280 You can actually come. 304 00:28:16,760 --> 00:28:22,017 Jan, we'll look for you when we have a vacancy indeed. 305 00:28:22,160 --> 00:28:26,900 Apologies. Other questions for Thomas? Yes, please. 306 00:28:28,820 --> 00:28:29,480 Louis Dubois, pour 307 00:28:29,480 --> 00:28:33,028 Europe Agence, I had a question regarding the social movement in France. 308 00:28:33,137 --> 00:28:37,281 The French media Blast reported on a letter sent by French Prime Minister Sébastien 309 00:28:37,327 --> 00:28:41,812 Lecornu to the various operators. explore the possibility of cutting off access to 310 00:28:41,871 --> 00:28:47,572 certain social networks, in particular TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram. 311 00:28:47,662 --> 00:28:51,559 Has the Commission been informed of such a measure? 312 00:28:51,689 --> 00:28:53,060 And that's it. 313 00:28:54,860 --> 00:29:00,071 Hello. Thank you for the question. So, as regards the riots taking place in France, 314 00:29:00,140 --> 00:29:05,665 once again, the DSA, to start with the DSA, provides a whole arsenal of measures 315 00:29:05,728 --> 00:29:10,379 that national authorities, whether in France or elsewhere, can use to, of course, 316 00:29:10,482 --> 00:29:13,981 hold online platforms accountable for the role they play. 317 00:29:14,048 --> 00:29:18,739 As regards the letter and the discussions we are having with the Member States, I 318 00:29:18,776 --> 00:29:21,608 will not be committing myself on this issue from this podium. 319 00:29:21,706 --> 00:29:26,426 That is what has been announced or in the letter, in any case in the reports that we 320 00:29:26,489 --> 00:29:30,571 have seen. This has not materialised. It has not taken place. 321 00:29:30,635 --> 00:29:35,180 Therefore, I myself will not, from this podium, elaborate on this subject. 322 00:29:37,160 --> 00:29:38,840 And. A follow-up question. 323 00:29:40,040 --> 00:29:43,966 There is another day of mobilisation planned for 5 November, so there is still the 324 00:29:44,018 --> 00:29:45,856 possibility of social media being cut off. 325 00:29:45,898 --> 00:29:49,160 If this cut-off happens, do you find the measure appropriate? 326 00:29:50,780 --> 00:29:53,299 So, this is still very hypothetical at this stage. 327 00:29:53,355 --> 00:29:56,569 Again, I will not commit myself. Again, I invite you first to check with the French 328 00:29:56,605 --> 00:30:00,428 authorities what the potential legal basis might be before I comment on the 329 00:30:00,488 --> 00:30:06,133 feasibility or otherwise. We are, as always, in contact with the French authorities, 330 00:30:06,191 --> 00:30:08,840 but I will not comment on a hypothetical scenario at this stage. 331 00:30:10,820 --> 00:30:19,100 Okay. Any other questions for... Thomas? Yes. 332 00:30:19,520 --> 00:30:20,720 Please. 333 00:30:22,820 --> 00:30:25,676 Hi Thomas, Angela Scutens again from Euronews. 334 00:30:25,760 --> 00:30:30,148 I was wondering if you could give us an update on the safe plans that are still in 335 00:30:30,206 --> 00:30:32,420 the pipeline, particularly Hungary. Thank you. 336 00:30:34,400 --> 00:30:38,720 Positive. News that I can give you, Angie, so indeed the Commission has just this 337 00:30:38,780 --> 00:30:42,994 morning approved the last and remaining safe plan, which is the Hungarian one. 338 00:30:43,040 --> 00:30:49,233 So this confirms the 5.4 billion euro plan for Hungary, which is now going to the 339 00:30:49,281 --> 00:30:54,200 Council for approval on the Council side. Now, one final point on this one. 340 00:30:54,320 --> 00:30:59,105 This now also obviously set in stone the potential leftovers, slightly north of 21 341 00:30:59,210 --> 00:31:03,431 billion euro, and now you can also expect the Commission at some point to be in 342 00:31:03,478 --> 00:31:05,540 touch with member states on these leftovers. 343 00:31:07,520 --> 00:31:13,400 Yes. Other. Questions for Thomas? David? 344 00:31:16,160 --> 00:31:23,309 Yes. Thank you, Paula. To my fair remember, well, Austria has notified its 345 00:31:23,433 --> 00:31:35,866 intention, its law to put age limit for kids and the access of social platform. 346 00:31:35,960 --> 00:31:41,170 At the same time, you have presented the proposal on the Kids Act. 347 00:31:41,240 --> 00:31:48,164 There are other member states that are notifying national measure that limit the age 348 00:31:48,305 --> 00:31:56,958 to access social media. And there is a deadline for Austria tomorrow, I guess. 349 00:31:57,080 --> 00:32:05,924 Do you have any news on what are you going to do to object to this draft law or to 350 00:32:06,200 --> 00:32:07,400 give a green light? Thank you. 351 00:32:08,540 --> 00:32:12,093 Thanks, David. You are absolutely right. We have a deadline of tomorrow to get back 352 00:32:12,140 --> 00:32:17,201 to the Austrian authorities regarding their draft national law. 353 00:32:17,300 --> 00:32:20,420 You said it. I mean, nothing new to announce for now on this. 354 00:32:20,480 --> 00:32:25,213 Let's wait tomorrow until the final notification goes to the Austrian authorities. 355 00:32:25,280 --> 00:32:28,164 Generally speaking, you said it in your absolutely right, David. 356 00:32:28,220 --> 00:32:30,564 The Commission has presented the Kids Act. 357 00:32:30,620 --> 00:32:35,465 With one reason in mind, the main reason being the fact that we do not want a 358 00:32:35,530 --> 00:32:40,031 fragmentation of the market. All our kids across the Union deserve equal 359 00:32:40,113 --> 00:32:43,380 protections. This is why we have proposed the Kids Act, and we'll take it from 360 00:32:43,420 --> 00:32:46,520 there. So not prejudging today what we may announce tomorrow. 361 00:32:48,980 --> 00:32:54,440 Good. And we have yes, still a question in the room for Thomas. 362 00:32:55,400 --> 00:32:59,763 Hello, Charles Cohen from Rapporteur. I just want to follow up on the safe loans. 363 00:32:59,900 --> 00:33:06,032 So you've mentioned that the Hungarian case now sets in stone the amount of 364 00:33:06,112 --> 00:33:09,989 leftovers to around 21 billion, a bit less than 21 billion euros. 365 00:33:10,040 --> 00:33:14,960 So can you give us an update on the next steps with the leftovers and the second 366 00:33:15,032 --> 00:33:18,952 call for countries to apply for these leftovers? 367 00:33:19,040 --> 00:33:23,075 Thank you. By the deadline of December. Thanks, indeed. 368 00:33:23,120 --> 00:33:25,064 We have to do it this year, absolutely right, Charles. 369 00:33:25,100 --> 00:33:27,093 So the current situation is the following. 370 00:33:27,140 --> 00:33:31,457 Now that we have approved all the safe plans, at least from our side, we have now 371 00:33:31,520 --> 00:33:35,617 the official amount of leftovers. What will happen next is that the Commission, like 372 00:33:35,667 --> 00:33:39,747 it was for the initial call when a safe was officially presented, the Commission 373 00:33:39,800 --> 00:33:43,794 will then at some point reach out to member states to present the total amount of 374 00:33:43,851 --> 00:33:49,110 leftovers, which I just did here, based on that member states can then express their 375 00:33:49,157 --> 00:33:53,906 interest to take additional loans and then we would definitely have to reassess 376 00:33:53,960 --> 00:33:57,920 potential plans coming from the member states who wish to take additional ones. 377 00:34:00,440 --> 00:34:03,500 Yes. Another question for Thomas. 378 00:34:04,040 --> 00:34:07,933 Hi, thanks. Jack from the Irish Times. Just very quickly on that. 379 00:34:08,000 --> 00:34:13,133 Of the leftovers, is it only countries that initially participated in safe that can 380 00:34:13,199 --> 00:34:17,773 apply, or did a country that did not participate initially potentially apply for the 381 00:34:17,825 --> 00:34:19,160 sum of the 20 billion? Thank you. 382 00:34:21,200 --> 00:34:23,900 It would. Be an open call. All member states. 383 00:34:24,860 --> 00:34:30,860 Good. That clarifies. And I have Thomas online. 384 00:34:35,240 --> 00:34:37,956 Yes, good afternoon, Thomas Galladotti, ADN Chronos Italy. 385 00:34:38,000 --> 00:34:43,705 It's just a question on Italy, if I may. Because I have read on the Corriere della 386 00:34:43,808 --> 00:34:51,465 Sera that the European Commission might reply to the Italian government as far as 387 00:34:51,532 --> 00:34:58,549 flexibility is concerned, in particular they say that the Italian government asked 388 00:34:58,640 --> 00:35:07,890 for. The some projects which are already financed by under next generation EU to be 389 00:35:07,964 --> 00:35:14,720 covered by the national escape clause thus freeing up a. 390 00:35:15,080 --> 00:35:20,660 Good amount of resources. May you please confirm that you're going to reply soon to 391 00:35:20,743 --> 00:35:31,305 the Italian government and is the what they say about the transfer of the project 392 00:35:31,400 --> 00:35:32,840 correct? Many thanks. 393 00:35:33,860 --> 00:35:37,777 Yes. Thomas, you're right to ask the question to Thomas because he's stepping in 394 00:35:37,833 --> 00:35:43,952 also for Ballazh today. So it's in between for. 395 00:35:44,060 --> 00:35:45,260 Portfolios. Go ahead. 396 00:35:45,560 --> 00:35:49,688 Thanks, Paula. And indeed, Thomas, let me just recall that one important and 397 00:35:49,729 --> 00:35:51,457 essential step is missing in this process. 398 00:35:51,500 --> 00:35:55,643 So let me first recall that the Commission has already assessed Italy's national 399 00:35:55,700 --> 00:35:58,839 escape clause and the activation request, which is now with the Council. 400 00:35:58,880 --> 00:36:03,015 So let's take it from there. I can definitely say from our point of view that we are 401 00:36:03,056 --> 00:36:06,334 in constructive dialogue with the Italian authorities, of course, and we're 402 00:36:06,380 --> 00:36:07,820 constantly engaging on this matter. 403 00:36:09,500 --> 00:36:15,839 Okay. Good. Just making sure no further questions for Thomas, who has said today is 404 00:36:15,938 --> 00:36:22,208 covering also for four. Ballazh and Olaf. Yes? 405 00:36:22,400 --> 00:36:24,980 Jack? Is it still for Thomas? 406 00:36:25,340 --> 00:36:26,540 Here for Anwar. 407 00:36:26,840 --> 00:36:30,620 For Anwar. And we have no nothing left for Thomas. 408 00:36:32,600 --> 00:36:37,523 At. Thanks. It's just a question in response to the Israeli elections. 409 00:36:37,580 --> 00:36:42,777 Obviously, there was a hesitancy to do anything on sanctions when it came to the 410 00:36:42,835 --> 00:36:46,048 occupied territories in the middle of an election campaign. 411 00:36:46,100 --> 00:36:50,600 But I just wanted to get the Commission's view now that the election is over. 412 00:36:50,660 --> 00:36:56,849 Will any decision when it comes to a trade ban, which occupied settlements, depend 413 00:36:57,050 --> 00:37:03,163 on the flavor and behavior of the next government, or will it be separate to 414 00:37:03,260 --> 00:37:04,520 coalition talks? Thank you. 415 00:37:05,900 --> 00:37:11,540 Thank you, Jack. So Anwar, on the elections in Israel. 416 00:37:11,780 --> 00:37:17,358 Indeed. Thank you. The European Union congratulates the Israeli people on 417 00:37:17,432 --> 00:37:24,380 yesterday's elections, which show a high voter turnout reflecting Israel's vibrant 418 00:37:24,470 --> 00:37:29,712 democracy. There now begins a period of political negotiations to form the next 419 00:37:29,786 --> 00:37:35,660 Israeli government. The European Union looks forward to engaging with the next 420 00:37:35,743 --> 00:37:40,392 government, and this on the basis of our long-standing relationship and commitment 421 00:37:40,468 --> 00:37:46,154 to democratic principles and common values, as well as to further advancing 422 00:37:46,218 --> 00:37:52,220 people-to-people contacts. In terms of our approach, our approach will continue to 423 00:37:52,280 --> 00:37:59,441 be based on both a frank and open dialogue, in view of advancing our bilateral 424 00:37:59,512 --> 00:38:05,301 cooperation, addressing all issues of concern, and working together to promote 425 00:38:05,356 --> 00:38:09,860 regional stability, security, and a just and lasting peace. 426 00:38:13,400 --> 00:38:19,460 And Moz, I think you wanted to come in also on the topic of elections in Israel. 427 00:38:19,520 --> 00:38:24,368 Maybe it has been answered by Anwar just now. 428 00:38:24,680 --> 00:38:25,880 Moz? 429 00:38:29,660 --> 00:38:38,389 Yes. Hello. Thank you very much. I have a similar question. 430 00:38:38,540 --> 00:38:44,300 Elections yesterday. Because we know already now, if you hear me, that. 431 00:38:44,540 --> 00:38:47,600 We hear you with some echo, Moz. Not. 432 00:38:47,900 --> 00:38:48,200 No. 433 00:38:48,200 --> 00:38:49,400 Very clearly. 434 00:38:49,400 --> 00:38:54,680 No. According to the ongoing count of the votes, more than 80 percent of the votes 435 00:38:54,740 --> 00:38:59,593 already been counted, I understand, shows that there is a clear victory for the 436 00:38:59,640 --> 00:39:07,072 opposition, including the Arab party. Which will gain together perhaps 64 more seats 437 00:39:07,153 --> 00:39:14,060 in the Knesset against Netanyahu's far-right government's 54 seats. 438 00:39:14,240 --> 00:39:19,307 But as you said, I mean, it's currently a deadlock. 439 00:39:19,400 --> 00:39:23,769 And we will not we don't know what outcome of the negotiation for forming a new 440 00:39:23,821 --> 00:39:30,960 government, how that will go. But I would like to ask a. 441 00:39:31,220 --> 00:39:38,751 If, I mean, here would welcome a change of government in order to, let's say, 442 00:39:38,820 --> 00:39:44,188 restore the bilateral relations between Israel and the EU. 443 00:39:44,360 --> 00:39:49,570 And if, for example, the sanctions, that was the previous question, I think these 444 00:39:49,616 --> 00:39:54,258 are still on the table. If the question whether they will be lifted or imposed 445 00:39:54,324 --> 00:40:02,275 again, if that will depend on the outcome of the forming of a new government of 446 00:40:02,338 --> 00:40:05,638 change. And removing Netanyahu from power. 447 00:40:05,720 --> 00:40:06,920 Thank you. 448 00:40:07,700 --> 00:40:11,405 Thanks. Thanks, Moz. I think you answered yourself, the first part of your question, 449 00:40:11,463 --> 00:40:15,838 saying that we don't know the next steps and how things will look like as we said 450 00:40:15,914 --> 00:40:20,897 indeed. There now begins a period of political negotiations to form the next Israeli 451 00:40:20,960 --> 00:40:25,520 government. And I would not hear comment from this stage in terms of what might 452 00:40:25,580 --> 00:40:29,124 happen or not happen. This is not for me to comment on. 453 00:40:29,180 --> 00:40:34,226 But what is for me to comment on is to say, loud and clear, that the EU looks 454 00:40:34,272 --> 00:40:36,568 forward to engaging with the next government. 455 00:40:36,620 --> 00:40:40,874 And this on the basis of our long-standing relationship and commitment to democratic 456 00:40:40,930 --> 00:40:47,613 principles and common values. And we will keep doing so, basing ourselves on a frank 457 00:40:47,683 --> 00:40:52,011 and open dialogue in view of advancing our bilateral cooperation, addressing all 458 00:40:52,058 --> 00:40:56,600 issues of concern, and working together to promote regional stability, security, and 459 00:40:56,660 --> 00:40:58,400 a just and lasting peace. 460 00:41:00,440 --> 00:41:08,370 Thank. You, Anwar. That's. All that we can say at this stage, indeed, on this topic. 461 00:41:08,540 --> 00:41:14,096 Other questions on foreign affairs to Anwar? 462 00:41:14,480 --> 00:41:20,006 Not to Anwar? Thank you. I know that there was still a question on foreign affairs, 463 00:41:20,060 --> 00:41:25,945 which was not asked earlier. So just to remain on the topic and ask Christian, 464 00:41:25,992 --> 00:41:33,992 because we have a question from. Angelina. 465 00:41:34,340 --> 00:41:51,888 Online. From Bulgaria. Angelina? No. Angelina is not connecting. 466 00:41:52,040 --> 00:42:05,468 Three. Two. One. No. Okay. Angelina, we can come back to you after the midday if 467 00:42:05,624 --> 00:42:09,743 necessary. Stefan, would this be for Christian again? 468 00:42:09,800 --> 00:42:16,480 No. Okay. Christian? No, because it's round two for Christian. 469 00:42:16,580 --> 00:42:18,200 So we changed topic. Stefan. 470 00:42:21,320 --> 00:42:27,000 Yes. On Serbia's elections, I wanted to ask whether you tend to have intention to 471 00:42:27,170 --> 00:42:33,148 assist a smooth transition in the students' lists in taking over the government. 472 00:42:33,200 --> 00:42:38,612 And whether this newest development in Serbia might have an impact on the 473 00:42:38,660 --> 00:42:42,982 enlargement report for Serbia, whether it might be maybe delayed. 474 00:42:43,040 --> 00:42:48,774 I think it's planned for next week. And maybe finally, more historical question, 475 00:42:48,825 --> 00:42:54,219 whether you regret that you stick to President Vučić as your preferred interlocutor 476 00:42:54,293 --> 00:42:58,264 as he is accusing you to be behind the victory of the opposition. 477 00:42:58,340 --> 00:42:59,540 Thank you. 478 00:43:01,640 --> 00:43:05,576 Thank you for the questions. First, on the elections. 479 00:43:05,660 --> 00:43:10,101 So we take note of the preliminary results of the parliamentary elections in Serbia. 480 00:43:10,160 --> 00:43:13,160 And we congratulate the student list on its victory. 481 00:43:13,280 --> 00:43:18,203 As President Vladimir said, over the weekend, people of Serbia turned out in record 482 00:43:18,260 --> 00:43:23,203 numbers to shape the country's future. Serbia belongs to the European family, and 483 00:43:23,246 --> 00:43:28,466 the Commission welcomes the ambition for democracy, the rule of law from the winning 484 00:43:28,534 --> 00:43:33,657 list. This provides now an opportunity for Serbia to advance on its EU accession 485 00:43:33,740 --> 00:43:38,843 path. The Commission stands ready to work closely with the future government and 486 00:43:38,900 --> 00:43:44,120 support reforms under rule of law, media freedom, the fights against corruption, and 487 00:43:44,180 --> 00:43:49,884 strong democratic institutions. So the EU remains fully committed to advancing 488 00:43:49,954 --> 00:43:52,280 Serbia's future in the EU. 489 00:43:57,080 --> 00:44:03,114 And. Sorry. Yes. And you mentioned briefly Guillaume, President von der Leyen, also 490 00:44:03,172 --> 00:44:08,591 congratulating the student list on its victory over the weekend. 491 00:44:08,780 --> 00:44:14,786 And obviously, we will work with the new government, as we do with any freely 492 00:44:14,919 --> 00:44:21,899 elected government. It's in our interest to advance the discussions to the advance 493 00:44:21,990 --> 00:44:27,843 reforms on the rule of law, the media freedom, the fight against corruption, with 494 00:44:27,954 --> 00:44:30,320 the Serbian authorities. Yes, Stefan. 495 00:44:32,000 --> 00:44:34,184 Yeah. I'm sure that you will work with the future government. 496 00:44:34,220 --> 00:44:38,733 But my question was more on the transition, because that's quite a delicate part 497 00:44:38,831 --> 00:44:43,934 now. As the actual government will try to sabotage the transition, maybe. 498 00:44:44,000 --> 00:44:48,332 So what do you see a role in this transition for the Commission or for its 499 00:44:48,380 --> 00:44:53,242 representatives there? And my question was also in referring to the progress report. 500 00:44:53,300 --> 00:44:57,983 Will it be delayed, or will the election result have an impact on the substance? 501 00:44:58,040 --> 00:44:59,240 Thank you. 502 00:45:01,220 --> 00:45:07,852 Look, when it comes to the transition, it is for the national authorities, for the 503 00:45:07,977 --> 00:45:14,535 here the student list to organize themselves to form a government, a parliament, and 504 00:45:14,609 --> 00:45:17,953 others. The Commission stands ready to support the work on the reforms. 505 00:45:18,020 --> 00:45:24,224 As I said, so it's very important to mention that Commissioner Kos already had a 506 00:45:24,277 --> 00:45:27,721 first contact with the leader of the student list. 507 00:45:27,800 --> 00:45:33,490 And she did discuss EU accession, the reforms, and others. 508 00:45:33,560 --> 00:45:38,780 And again, she said that we stand ready to support this work in the future moving 509 00:45:38,840 --> 00:45:44,485 forward. When it comes to the enlargement package, work is still ongoing. 510 00:45:44,540 --> 00:45:51,200 The indicative timing, again, indicative timing is to have it adopted next week. 511 00:45:51,380 --> 00:45:53,180 So that's all I can say at this stage. 512 00:45:55,760 --> 00:45:58,160 Other questions for Guillaume, please. 513 00:46:01,460 --> 00:46:04,626 Adrian Bakic, Slovenian public broadcaster. 514 00:46:04,700 --> 00:46:09,558 Following the elections in Serbia and also encouraging messages from the European 515 00:46:09,611 --> 00:46:13,908 Commission saying it can be a new start for the European path of Serbia, the 516 00:46:13,960 --> 00:46:18,474 Slovenian Prime Minister wrote on his social media that Slovenia would not give its 517 00:46:18,547 --> 00:46:24,534 consent to any progress in Serbia's EU accession negotiations until Serbia handed 518 00:46:24,583 --> 00:46:28,406 over to Slovenia all the archives from the former Yugoslav Secret Services 519 00:46:28,460 --> 00:46:31,344 concerning Slovenia. How do you comment on that? 520 00:46:31,400 --> 00:46:36,260 And do you see such demands legitimate, especially connecting them to the 521 00:46:36,320 --> 00:46:37,940 enlargement process? Thank you. 522 00:46:39,140 --> 00:46:43,828 Thank you. The enlargement process is a merit-based process. 523 00:46:43,880 --> 00:46:50,107 And we assess the progress across all the EU policies and fundamentals, including 524 00:46:50,165 --> 00:46:56,293 the rule of law and democratic criteria. Bilateral issues are not part of accession 525 00:46:56,385 --> 00:47:01,107 negotiations. As we stressed many times, good neighborly relations and good 526 00:47:01,164 --> 00:47:07,153 relations with member states are an essential element of the enlargement process. 527 00:47:07,220 --> 00:47:11,662 And parties concerned should always address these issues in a very constructive 528 00:47:11,720 --> 00:47:12,920 spirit. 529 00:47:14,900 --> 00:47:19,687 Good. Let me see who hasn't had the occasion yet to ask a question. 530 00:47:19,760 --> 00:47:21,500 Go ahead. You had it. 531 00:47:23,480 --> 00:47:28,817 Thank you, Vince Chadwick from Rapporte. Question for Guillaume about fraud and 532 00:47:28,890 --> 00:47:35,848 foreign aid. So in November 2024, the Commission received a provisional audit on the 533 00:47:35,939 --> 00:47:40,370 organization of African Caribbean Pacific states. 534 00:47:40,460 --> 00:47:46,235 Finding many things, notably hundreds of thousands of euros that had gone to phantom 535 00:47:46,314 --> 00:47:50,243 school fees claimed by employees where there was no evidence that they had any 536 00:47:50,305 --> 00:47:54,629 children or that they were at the British school in Brussels. 537 00:47:54,740 --> 00:48:00,278 The Commission froze funding and then that was two years ago. 538 00:48:00,320 --> 00:48:04,657 So I guess my question is, you were in February 2025, you said you were looking into 539 00:48:04,700 --> 00:48:08,866 it. We're now in October 2026. So I guess the question is, what have you found? 540 00:48:08,900 --> 00:48:11,307 What have you done? Has anyone been held responsible? 541 00:48:11,360 --> 00:48:13,460 Are you still funding this organization? Thank you. 542 00:48:15,020 --> 00:48:19,810 Thank you for the question. So happy to provide an update on the situation. 543 00:48:19,880 --> 00:48:24,851 So the European Commission has launched a series of audit to review the proper use 544 00:48:24,929 --> 00:48:30,768 of EU funds provided to the OACPS secretariat. 545 00:48:30,860 --> 00:48:36,932 So these audits have been finalized. And they have identified issues such as missing 546 00:48:37,012 --> 00:48:44,327 documents or ineligible expenditures. So this led also to a contradictory procedures 547 00:48:44,443 --> 00:48:51,449 and we another re-evaluation of the ineligible expenditures. 548 00:48:51,560 --> 00:48:55,114 In parallel, now the Court of Auditors, European Court of Auditors, has also 549 00:48:55,170 --> 00:48:59,840 launched an audit and these findings are also being into account, being taken into 550 00:48:59,900 --> 00:49:04,240 account when it comes to the closure of contracts between the EU and the 551 00:49:04,329 --> 00:49:09,382 secretariat. So at this stage, and until this work is fully finalized, the EU has 552 00:49:09,465 --> 00:49:13,506 not resumed its financial support to the secretariat. 553 00:49:13,580 --> 00:49:19,267 It's a very important also we want to mention we wish to recognize as well that the 554 00:49:19,329 --> 00:49:24,800 measures taken by the new leadership of the OACPS secretariat to resolve the 555 00:49:24,865 --> 00:49:29,514 outstanding issues identified by the audits that I just mentioned, the independent 556 00:49:29,558 --> 00:49:33,989 audits, and more generally by reinforcing the secretariat administrative and 557 00:49:34,069 --> 00:49:37,100 financial capacities. That's the update I can provide. 558 00:49:38,420 --> 00:49:43,974 Good. Okay. And we have time for one final question today. 559 00:49:44,120 --> 00:49:47,900 Yes, please. Also for Guillaume. 560 00:49:49,220 --> 00:49:53,967 Oh, Barbara Maxová, Czech Television. I have a question connected to the situation 561 00:49:54,020 --> 00:50:01,723 in the Czech Republic. Because the last week, Czech Parliament advanced the bill to 562 00:50:01,790 --> 00:50:09,208 its second reading. And this bill would abolish license fees for public service 563 00:50:09,312 --> 00:50:16,950 media. And would found Czech Radio and Czech Television directly from the state 564 00:50:17,063 --> 00:50:22,705 budget. Moreover, this proposal has rise serious concerns about the independence of 565 00:50:22,798 --> 00:50:25,601 public media service in the Czech Republic. 566 00:50:25,640 --> 00:50:31,568 So my question is, what does the European Commission think about these developments? 567 00:50:31,640 --> 00:50:37,888 And are these Czech government plans in line with the European media freedom act? 568 00:50:37,940 --> 00:50:39,080 Thank you very much. 569 00:50:39,080 --> 00:50:41,060 Thank you. Yes. Thank you. 570 00:50:41,900 --> 00:50:44,420 Go ahead, Guillaume, stepping in for Marcus also today. 571 00:50:45,860 --> 00:50:49,818 So what I can say is that we are indeed aware of the Czech Parliament's chamber of 572 00:50:49,885 --> 00:50:53,738 deputies who approved the bill at first reading on Saturday. 573 00:50:53,840 --> 00:50:57,500 And now we're continuing to follow closely the developments in the process. 574 00:50:59,480 --> 00:51:04,244 Good. And this brings us to a close of our midday today. 575 00:51:04,324 --> 00:51:09,077 Wish you very good afternoon. Thank you to our interpreters. 576 00:51:09,156 --> 00:51:10,820 And see you tomorrow.