Brussels Live · EC midday briefing 2026-10-28
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[12:40:51] Speaker 1 [EN]
Good afternoon and welcome to our midday briefing. We have a few announcements for you before we start with your questions and, unfortunately, we start with a very sad news. You've all heard about the train crash this morning in Spain, and the European Commission mourns the tragic loss of many lives. Following the rail accident on the Madrid-Andalusia high-speed rail line in Spain, our thoughts and our feelings are with the victims and their families and friends, and all those affected. And the Commission, together with the European Union Agency for Railways, is closely following the situation, and we stand ready to support the Spanish authorities in any way that may be needed. Now, on a different subject, unfortunately, a happy subject is to welcome our groups of visitors here in the press room and today we have a group of Danish high school students on a visit learning about the jobs important, very important, job of interpreters and translators without whom we could not do our work on a daily basis. And you are preparing for that important work. We hope you enjoy your time here with us in the European Commission and in the press room now. And with this, we can take your questions. Let me start here in the middle.

[12:42:47] Gerard Descaches (Catalan News Agency) [EN]
Hello, good afternoon. Thank you, Paula. Gerard Descaches with the Catalan News Agency. It's regarding today's tragic accident in Andalusia, well, in Toledo. I wanted to know if President von der Leyen has spoken with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and, if so, what was the readout of the conversation. And if, by any chance, President von der Leyen or any of the commissioners, such as Commissioner Rivera, and Commissioner Seix de Costas, would travel to decide as a show of solidarity or to learn more about the accident. Thank you.

[12:43:23] Speaker 1 [EN]
Thank you. Well, the President, President von der Leyen, received with great sadness this news. She posted very, very swiftly after she heard about this tragic accident. You may see her post this morning. She didn't have the opportunity yet to speak with Prime Minister Sánchez. President von der Leyen is currently traveling to Canada and, but she had the occasion and wanted absolutely to post to convey her feelings and her mourning to all the victims of this very tragic accident this morning. Yes, please.

[12:44:20] Bruno Fortea (Catalan Public Radio) [EN]
Now, Bruno Fortea for Catalan Public Radio. This is the second major train accident that happens in the same line in just a few months, involving dozens of deaths. There was also a few months ago another deadly train accident close to Barcelona. I would like to know if the European Commission has asked the Spanish authorities for some explanations and if you are concerned about the train security in Spain. Thank you.

[12:44:50] Speaker 1 [EN]
As. I mentioned at the very beginning, we are, of course, together with the European Union Agency for Railways, following the situation. And on that basis, we are also ready to support the Spanish authorities in any way that may be needed. It's too early, absolutely too early, to draw any conclusions. But through the agency, we will be looking more closely and establish also the contacts which may be required in such tragic circumstances.

[12:45:29] Speaker 1 [FR]
Yes, Antoine.

[12:45:37] Antoine Moutofart (Japanese Public TV and HK) [EN]
Thank you, Paula. Antoine Moutofart, Japanese Public TV and HK. Since in your announcement you already kind of mentioned that you are ready, you're standing ready to support the Spanish authorities. Do you already know what you could do, what you tend to do, and also you in the past question you already mentioned a kind of what would be the following steps about a possible potential investigation. But have you already heard anything about the potential error human error mentioned by the Spanish authorities? Thank you.

[12:46:17] Speaker 1 [EN]
Thank you, Antoine. And Anna Kaiser will remind us what is the role of the European Union Agency for Railways and in such a context. Anna Kaiser. So, indeed, first, what kind of assistance can the Commission give us, as Paula was saying, we stand ready to provide any assistance that is requested, that is required. So, from, and then I'm here only talking about the transport side, but obviously when there's an acute crisis situation, DG ECHO can stand in to help as well if so required. So, from the transport side, obviously we can offer various kinds of technical help, but really in the current, in today's accident, we are still at the very, very early stages of determining what happened. And here we want to give also the space and possibility for the Spanish authorities to do this work and for them to communicate and for them to be in touch with our ERA, our agency, railways agency as well as with our services. And we will then take the work forward when we have a better visibility, better understanding of what has happened, what kind of assistance would be needed. But this is the process. So therefore, given that this massively tragic accident is literally unfolding still at the moment and we're still waiting to hear what. Final consequences, human and other, it might eventually have we stay in touch with the Spanish authorities to get their full reading and understanding what has happened first and then it's our role to step in when and if requested. Other questions to Anna Kaiser? Jorge.

[12:48:24] Speaker 3 [EN]
Yes, it's on energy, but maybe it's more for you, Paula, because we're once again seeing reports that the United States and Russia are actively discussing the reopening of the Nord Stream pipeline and the resumption of Russian gas flows into Europe after the war in Ukraine. Comes to an end. Can you categorically rule out that after the war, after the peace deal, regardless of how this peace deal looks like, the Nord Stream pipeline will be reopened and Russian gas will flow again into Europe? Can you really tell the U.S. and Russia to forget all about this? Thank you.

[12:49:04] Speaker 1 [EN]
Thank you, Jorge. I think our position on this topic has been made very, very clear by the President, by President von der Leyen, at several occasions recently, most recently last week at the Parliament's European Parliament's plenary, and before that in the margins of the European Council. And there she was referring specifically to the sanctions that we have and that are there because of the war. And the President said very clearly that energy sanctions will stay until Russia stops this war. So the position is absolutely clear. Made in the occasion of the plenary at the Parliament last week and as said also in the context of the European Council, we know far too well the hidden costs of being dependent of Russia for the purchase of fossil fuels. They have been weaponized, and we have been paying the price. So we do not forget that. Jorge.

[12:50:24] Speaker 3 [EN]
Yes, thank you. But as you said, the President spoke about maintaining the sanctions until the war comes to an end. What's been discussed now is the scenario after the war, when peace returns, hopefully to Ukraine one day. So can you rule out that after the war, when peace returns, the Nord Stream pipeline will remain shut down and Russian gas will not flow into Europe? Thank you.

[12:50:50] Speaker 1 [EN]
Well, first of all, we want to see the war ending. That is the absolute priority. And on your second point, as I said, we have learned with or without war, we have learned the price and we have been paying the price of being dependent on the imports of fossil fuels from Russia. Yes. And just to remind that we have the Repower legislation in force. So that is not tight to sanctions or any geopolitical events either. It is already the legislation is in force, it's been implemented. So regardless of what happens, we are facing out Russian gas and LNG from the European market. And the last shipments should be finished by the end of next year. And as Paula said, our position on Nord Stream has been very clear since the beginning of this whole project. It's not for us to decide whether it will be functioning in the European Union or not. And let us, and thank you very much, indeed, Anna Kaiser, we have legislation in place. And on top of it, it's a good occasion to remind ourselves who has cut the supplies in the first place. It was Russia in case this is being forgotten in the meantime. Lawrence.

[12:52:20] Speaker 3 [EN]
Thanks. I'm a little surprised, Paula. Precisely because of what Anna Kaiser said, that we do have this legislation. I would have thought it would be very easy to say, yes, we can rule out ever having Nord Stream again or ever having gas because we have legislation for it. But you didn't say that. And we know that the U.S. is pushing very hard for energy sanctions to be lifted as part of a deal. So I'm just going to give you the chance again. Can you rule out that Nord Stream will ever be reinvented with another name or the same name and piping gas into Europe? Can you rule out that we will be importing Russian gas in the future?

[12:53:06] Speaker 1 [EN]
If you prefer that I reply the same thing with those words, yes, we have legislation in place, which prevents us from resuming the imports of fossil fuels, of gas in particular, from Russia. Other questions? Yes, Barbara.

[12:53:30] Speaker 2 [EN]
Thank you. It's linked to Ukraine, so if I may. Zelensky opened a door for discussion on our Russian security guarantees in the context of a peace deal. Something that was previously a red line for Kyiv and also for its European allies. So I would wondered if you have a comment on that. Does the Commission believe that such a discussion about Russian security guarantees can be held in the context of peace negotiations? Thank you.

[12:53:58] Speaker 1 [EN]
Thank you, Barbara. So you know that there have been different discussions notably in Miami, most recently in Oslo. Different discussions on how to put an end to this war, whether EU has participated. We will not go into the details of those discussions, but it's clear and it's been said a number of times that as part of those discussions, the subject of territory, the subject of security guarantees for Ukraine and the subject of prosperity for Ukraine has been the topic. Yes, please.

[12:54:41] Zoryana Stepanenko (Radio Free Europe) [EN]
Thank you so much, Paula. Zoryana Stepanenko, Radio Free Europe, Ukraine. Regarding the recent call to Vladimir Putin that the leaders of Finland and Norway have made, so how would you assess the outcome of that call given that Vladimir Putin doesn't seem to even tend to change in his position? So do you see that those calls might make any sense? And another short question, if I may, also we heard from a Finnish president, Alexander Stubb, yesterday that in the upcoming talks in Abu Dhabi, the Europeans may take part. Though we heard recently from the Kremlin spokesperson that it's going to be trilateral talks. So is there any update judging from this statement that we've heard yesterday from Finnish president and, yeah, do you have any information that European actually can join those talks in Abu Dhabi? Thank you.

[12:55:35] Speaker 1 [EN]
Thank you. And yes, we know about the call, which took place between President Stubb, Prime Minister Stubb, and President Putin, which was which took place on bilateral basis. And is a follow-up to the meeting in Oslo of last week on the 20th of October. And as we have said before, the EU is united in our commitment not only to put an end to this horrific war, but also to achieve peace that will be just and that will be sustainable. This is the stance that we have been defending on the ongoing talks. And what is important here is that we keep a united message with this regard with whatever talks are held with President Putin. Now, with regard to upcoming discussions, we have no further information to share at this point. But also worth recalling, again, what has been our position on this and Christian, you will help me here.

[12:56:59] Speaker 3 [EN]
Yes, just to maybe remind of our of our united commitment that Paula just mentioned. Let me refer back to the European Council that made very clear that it remains to determine to further increase pressure on Russia so that it stops. It's a brutal war of aggression and engages in meaningful negotiations towards peace. The Council also underlined the importance of further sustained efforts to provide military support to Ukraine so we keep standing by Ukraine and unfortunately so far Russia has not shown signs that it is willing to end its war of aggression. But of course we're engaging in diplomatic efforts in this context.

[12:57:52] Speaker 1 [EN]
Another question to Christian. Oui, Olivier.

[12:57:59] Speaker 3 [FR]
Yes, hello Olivier Baud, OFL. This is more of a question for you. President Zelensky has just arrived in the Netherlands. I was wondering whether any contact or meeting was possibly planned between the President and Mr Zelensky today before she departs for Canada.

[12:58:16] Speaker 1 [FR]
Sorry, Olivier, I couldn’t hear the last part of your question.

[12:58:19] Speaker 3 [FR]
If a meeting or contact is planned between President Zelensky and President von der Leyen before she leaves for Canada, I do not know if it is tonight or if she has already left.

[12:58:31] Speaker 1 [FR]
Yes, thank you. Listen, President von der Leyen and President Zelensky are in very, very frequent and regular contact. Today, it may be a little more difficult because, as I said at the beginning, the President is on her way or rather in the air, heading to Canada. But they remain in regular contact, whether directly or through their respective teams. Gérald.

[12:59:09] Speaker 3 [EN]
Thanks, Paula. It's a follow-up on the call from yesterday. You said that we know about the call. Did you know about the call before the call was taken, like where was the Commission informed? And was the Commission informed after by President Stubb on the content, like briefed, let's say? And you also said this is a united commitment from the EU, but at the same time we had European leaders met. Did Danish Prime Minister that. Who didn't seem super happy about the initiative? Do you think do you still think that this initiative by Stubb is still has the united backing. By the Commission and the leaders as well?

[12:59:58] Speaker 1 [EN]
Thank you, Gérald. Yes, we were informed before the call. And as I said earlier on, what is really important here is that we remain united behind the same message to be conveyed by President Putin. And unfortunately, as also Christian reminded, we are not seeing a lot of readiness to engage in such discussions by President Putin himself. Other questions? Yes, please.

[13:00:37] Gina Smylek (New York Times) [EN]
Thank you, Gina Smylek from the New York Times. President Zelensky has said repeatedly and repeated yesterday that he and Ukraine are waiting on the sign-off of Pete Hegseth to receive some Patriot missiles, that have been held up in the U.S. I was wondering if you guys have had any if anyone at the Commission or the EU has had interactions with your partners in the U.S. surrounding that sign-off by Mr. Hegseth, and if so, you know what the hold-up is?

[13:01:08] Speaker 1 [EN]
Thank you, Gina. I don't have any comments on this to offer. In this discussions in this talks that have been taking place, as said, be it in Miami, be it in Oslo, many issues are raised. I don't exclude that this topic could have been raised, but I have really no further information on this. Other questions for us today? Yes.

[13:01:37] Speaker 5 [EN]
Sorry, Paula, I'm just Angela Skujans from Euronews. I'm just trying to follow up from my colleague's question. So is it that you don't know whether or not the European anyone from the European Commission has pressed Pete Hegseth about the Patriots, or that it hasn't he hasn't been pressed from your side?

[13:01:53] Speaker 1 [EN]
No information about this. Yes. Stefan.

[13:02:00] Speaker 3 [EN]
It's on probably more on the enlargement on Serbian elections.

[13:02:04] Speaker 1 [EN]
Then let me just make sure that we don't have more questions for Christian today. We do. Please.

[13:02:16] Pietro Guastamacchia (Rapporteurs) [EN]
Good morning. Pietro Guastamacchia from Rapporteurs. A follow-up on interceptors, but this time the European one. Zelensky had said that the 10. Percent of the interceptor laying in the E5 arsenal would be sufficient for Ukraine to make through the winter. So if you don't have any information of whether you have put pressure on the U.S. for delivering interceptors, have you been putting pressure on European capitals to deliver interceptors to Ukraine? Thank you.

[13:02:47] Speaker 1 [EN]
Do you want to talk on it? Yes.

[13:02:50] Speaker 3 [EN]
Look, of course, air defense remains the key priority for Ukraine, as we see the attacks every day, unfortunately. We have already approved procurement plans worth 28. 3 billion under the Ukraine Support Loan. Which includes purchases of Patriot missiles from future U.S. production, but of course this takes time, and this is why we have repeatedly called on the HIVP has also called on member states in different formats or on member states, but also on partners, international partners, to supply missiles from their own stocks to Ukraine. And of course these efforts are ongoing. Also for sure with you to the next to the next Foreign Affairs and Defense Councils.

[13:03:42] Speaker 1 [EN]
Wait, I have it.

[13:03:45] David Carretta (Radio Radicale) [EN]
Thank you. David Carretta, Radio Radicale. On the 10 of September, if I remember well, you announced that part of the loan, six more than six billions, would have been granted to Ukraine. To buy interceptor Patriot interceptor PAC-3. So I'm wondering how you how it's possible that you don't know if the U.S. are not delivering or not sighing the authorization to deliver interceptor to Ukraine. Since I mean, you are putting some money on that. Thank you.

[13:04:29] Speaker 1 [EN]
And now the question that we had been asked before was a different one, was to what extent this had been discussed in the talks with the U.S. and to that, I said I have no further information. I cannot exclude that it has been raised. Now, you referred to the loan and the tranche that in September was approved indeed. Whether derogation, so allowing for the acquisition, also of Patriots, derogation because it does not come from the EU or from Ukraine for this matter. And there I do not have directly the information of where we are on that, but I will then call on Thomas to give us the latest since we have approved that disbursement.

[13:05:20] Speaker 3 [EN]
Thanks, Paula. And just indeed to put it into context, I mean, the Ukraine loan has specifically been designed with the necessary flexibility to allow for derogation. You're right. This was granted in December, including for interceptors. These are absolutely crucial products for Ukraine to be able to defend itself. This is why, of course, the urgent delivery of these equipments is absolutely crucial. Work is ongoing, and we do expect that those interceptors will be delivered soon.

[13:05:56] Speaker 1 [EN]
Good. Now that we have Thomas with us, Jan.

[13:06:07] Speaker 3 [EN]
Afternoon, Jaco Picherle, Bloomberg News. Our question regarding the AI Act requests for information. Several. Requests for information were sent to all the major AI labs, including some that were involved in cyber incidents over the summer. I think to remember the deadline for most of these companies to answer such requests was last week. I just wanted to make sure that I asked whether the Commission had received every single answer to its requests.

[13:06:45] Speaker 1 [EN]
Thanks, Jan. Positive news here. So indeed two different sets of RFIs. Just to briefly recall, although you know it definitely, so one was focused on safety and security, another one on copyright-related issues. Two more than 30 companies I can confirm that some deadlines have been prolonged for some reasons, but for all those that have expired, I can confirm that the Commission has received the information and we're currently assessing it. Jan. A follow-up.

[13:07:19] Speaker 3 [EN]
I mean, you kind of planted the question yourself. Which ones have been prolonged?

[13:07:25] Speaker 1 [EN]
This is a bilateral discussion. We're having with certain companies. We of course need to make sure that all companies receive the RFI in order to be able to respond to it. Work is ongoing with a few of them, but the vast majority of replies have been received by the Commission. Good. And Razia, do you want to come in on this topic? Go ahead.

[13:07:48] Razia Akoch (AFP news agency) [EN]
Thank you. Razia Akoch, AFP news agency. I don't know if in your reply you answered the question for some reasons. Could you elaborate? And I just want to insist on the point of could you name the companies? Thank you.

[13:08:01] Speaker 1 [EN]
Thanks. I'll not elaborate on the reasons. Again, bilateral discussions we're having with the companies on which companies? No, we never comment on which company has received an RFI or not. The list would be in any case pretty long on this one. It's more than 30 companies, 35 if I'm not mistaken. So quite a long list.

[13:08:19] Speaker 4 [EN]
Yes. Razia. I just wanted to fact-check you, not never. You have in the past. Thank you.

[13:08:28] Speaker 1 [EN]
Not under the AI Act, at least not from my side here on the podium.

[13:08:33] Speaker 4 [EN]
Consistency. On this side. Okay. Other questions to Jan?

[13:08:44] Speaker 1 [EN]
You can actually come.

[13:08:45] Speaker 4 [EN]
Jan, we'll look for you when we have a vacancy indeed. Apologies. Other questions for Thomas? Yes, please.

[13:08:57] Speaker 3 [EN]
Louis Dubois, pour

[13:08:58] Speaker 3 [FR]
Europe Agence, I had a question regarding the social movement in France. The French media Blast reported on a letter sent by French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to the various operators. explore the possibility of cutting off access to certain social networks, in particular TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram. Has the Commission been informed of such a measure? And that's it.

[13:09:23] Speaker 1 [FR]
Hello. Thank you for the question. So, as regards the riots taking place in France, once again, the DSA, to start with the DSA, provides a whole arsenal of measures that national authorities, whether in France or elsewhere, can use to, of course, hold online platforms accountable for the role they play. As regards the letter and the discussions we are having with the Member States, I will not be committing myself on this issue from this podium. That is what has been announced or in the letter, in any case in the reports that we have seen. This has not materialised. It has not taken place. Therefore, I myself will not, from this podium, elaborate on this subject.

[13:10:06] Speaker 4 [FR]
And. A follow-up question.

[13:10:09] Speaker 3 [FR]
There is another day of mobilisation planned for 5 November, so there is still the possibility of social media being cut off. If this cut-off happens, do you find the measure appropriate?

[13:10:19] Speaker 1 [FR]
So, this is still very hypothetical at this stage. Again, I will not commit myself. Again, I invite you first to check with the French authorities what the potential legal basis might be before I comment on the feasibility or otherwise. We are, as always, in contact with the French authorities, but I will not comment on a hypothetical scenario at this stage.

[13:10:39] Speaker 4 [FR]
Okay. Any other questions for... Thomas? Yes.

[13:10:48] Speaker 4 [EN]
Please.

[13:10:51] Speaker 2 [EN]
Hi Thomas, Angela Scutens again from Euronews. I was wondering if you could give us an update on the safe plans that are still in the pipeline, particularly Hungary. Thank you.

[13:11:03] Speaker 1 [EN]
Positive. News that I can give you, Angie, so indeed the Commission has just this morning approved the last and remaining safe plan, which is the Hungarian one. So this confirms the 5.4 billion euro plan for Hungary, which is now going to the Council for approval on the Council side. Now, one final point on this one. This now also obviously set in stone the potential leftovers, slightly north of 21 billion euro, and now you can also expect the Commission at some point to be in touch with member states on these leftovers.

[13:11:36] Speaker 4 [EN]
Yes. Other. Questions for Thomas? David?

[13:11:45] Speaker 3 [EN]
Yes. Thank you, Paula. To my fair remember, well, Austria has notified its intention, its law to put age limit for kids and the access of social platform. At the same time, you have presented the proposal on the Kids Act. There are other member states that are notifying national measure that limit the age to access social media. And there is a deadline for Austria tomorrow, I guess. Do you have any news on what are you going to do to object to this draft law or to give a green light? Thank you.

[13:12:37] Speaker 1 [EN]
Thanks, David. You are absolutely right. We have a deadline of tomorrow to get back to the Austrian authorities regarding their draft national law. You said it. I mean, nothing new to announce for now on this. Let's wait tomorrow until the final notification goes to the Austrian authorities. Generally speaking, you said it in your absolutely right, David. The Commission has presented the Kids Act. With one reason in mind, the main reason being the fact that we do not want a fragmentation of the market. All our kids across the Union deserve equal protections. This is why we have proposed the Kids Act, and we'll take it from there. So not prejudging today what we may announce tomorrow.

[13:13:17] Speaker 4 [EN]
Good. And we have yes, still a question in the room for Thomas.

[13:13:24] Charles Cohen (Rapporteur) [EN]
Hello, Charles Cohen from Rapporteur. I just want to follow up on the safe loans. So you've mentioned that the Hungarian case now sets in stone the amount of leftovers to around 21 billion, a bit less than 21 billion euros. So can you give us an update on the next steps with the leftovers and the second call for countries to apply for these leftovers? Thank you. By the deadline of December. Thanks, indeed. We have to do it this year, absolutely right, Charles. So the current situation is the following. Now that we have approved all the safe plans, at least from our side, we have now the official amount of leftovers. What will happen next is that the Commission, like it was for the initial call when a safe was officially presented, the Commission will then at some point reach out to member states to present the total amount of leftovers, which I just did here, based on that member states can then express their interest to take additional loans and then we would definitely have to reassess potential plans coming from the member states who wish to take additional ones.

[13:14:29] Speaker 4 [EN]
Yes. Another question for Thomas.

[13:14:33] Speaker 1 [EN]
Hi, thanks. Jack from the Irish Times. Just very quickly on that. Of the leftovers, is it only countries that initially participated in safe that can apply, or did a country that did not participate initially potentially apply for the sum of the 20 billion? Thank you.

[13:14:50] Speaker 3 [EN]
It would. Be an open call. All member states.

[13:14:53] Speaker 4 [EN]
Good. That clarifies. And I have Thomas online.

[13:15:04] Thomas Galladotti (ADN Chronos Italy) [EN]
Yes, good afternoon, Thomas Galladotti, ADN Chronos Italy. It's just a question on Italy, if I may. Because I have read on the Corriere della Sera that the European Commission might reply to the Italian government as far as flexibility is concerned, in particular they say that the Italian government asked for. The some projects which are already financed by under next generation EU to be covered by the national escape clause thus freeing up a. Good amount of resources. May you please confirm that you're going to reply soon to the Italian government and is the what they say about the transfer of the project correct? Many thanks.

[13:16:02] Speaker 4 [EN]
Yes. Thomas, you're right to ask the question to Thomas because he's stepping in also for Ballazh today. So it's in between for. Portfolios. Go ahead.

[13:16:14] Speaker 1 [EN]
Thanks, Paula. And indeed, Thomas, let me just recall that one important and essential step is missing in this process. So let me first recall that the Commission has already assessed Italy's national escape clause and the activation request, which is now with the Council. So let's take it from there. I can definitely say from our point of view that we are in constructive dialogue with the Italian authorities, of course, and we're constantly engaging on this matter.

[13:16:38] Speaker 4 [EN]
Okay. Good. Just making sure no further questions for Thomas, who has said today is covering also for four. Ballazh and Olaf. Yes? Jack? Is it still for Thomas?

[13:16:54] Speaker 1 [EN]
Here for Anwar.

[13:16:55] Speaker 4 [EN]
For Anwar. And we have no nothing left for Thomas.

[13:17:01] Speaker 1 [EN]
At. Thanks. It's just a question in response to the Israeli elections. Obviously, there was a hesitancy to do anything on sanctions when it came to the occupied territories in the middle of an election campaign. But I just wanted to get the Commission's view now that the election is over. Will any decision when it comes to a trade ban, which occupied settlements, depend on the flavor and behavior of the next government, or will it be separate to coalition talks? Thank you.

[13:17:34] Speaker 4 [EN]
Thank you, Jack. So Anwar, on the elections in Israel.

[13:17:40] Speaker 1 [EN]
Indeed. Thank you. The European Union congratulates the Israeli people on yesterday's elections, which show a high voter turnout reflecting Israel's vibrant democracy. There now begins a period of political negotiations to form the next Israeli government. The European Union looks forward to engaging with the next government, and this on the basis of our long-standing relationship and commitment to democratic principles and common values, as well as to further advancing people-to-people contacts. In terms of our approach, our approach will continue to be based on both a frank and open dialogue, in view of advancing our bilateral cooperation, addressing all issues of concern, and working together to promote regional stability, security, and a just and lasting peace.

[13:18:42] Speaker 4 [EN]
And Moz, I think you wanted to come in also on the topic of elections in Israel. Maybe it has been answered by Anwar just now. Moz?

[13:18:58] Speaker 2 [EN]
Yes. Hello. Thank you very much. I have a similar question. Elections yesterday. Because we know already now, if you hear me, that.

[13:19:13] Speaker 4 [EN]
We hear you with some echo, Moz. Not.

[13:19:16] Speaker 2 [EN]
No.

[13:19:17] Speaker 4 [EN]
Very clearly.

[13:19:18] Speaker 2 [EN]
No. According to the ongoing count of the votes, more than 80 percent of the votes already been counted, I understand, shows that there is a clear victory for the opposition, including the Arab party. Which will gain together perhaps 64 more seats in the Knesset against Netanyahu's far-right government's 54 seats. But as you said, I mean, it's currently a deadlock. And we will not we don't know what outcome of the negotiation for forming a new government, how that will go. But I would like to ask a. If, I mean, here would welcome a change of government in order to, let's say, restore the bilateral relations between Israel and the EU. And if, for example, the sanctions, that was the previous question, I think these are still on the table. If the question whether they will be lifted or imposed again, if that will depend on the outcome of the forming of a new government of change. And removing Netanyahu from power. Thank you.

[13:20:36] Speaker 1 [EN]
Thanks. Thanks, Moz. I think you answered yourself, the first part of your question, saying that we don't know the next steps and how things will look like as we said indeed. There now begins a period of political negotiations to form the next Israeli government. And I would not hear comment from this stage in terms of what might happen or not happen. This is not for me to comment on. But what is for me to comment on is to say, loud and clear, that the EU looks forward to engaging with the next government. And this on the basis of our long-standing relationship and commitment to democratic principles and common values. And we will keep doing so, basing ourselves on a frank and open dialogue in view of advancing our bilateral cooperation, addressing all issues of concern, and working together to promote regional stability, security, and a just and lasting peace.

[13:21:29] Speaker 4 [EN]
Thank. You, Anwar. That's. All that we can say at this stage, indeed, on this topic. Other questions on foreign affairs to Anwar? Not to Anwar? Thank you. I know that there was still a question on foreign affairs, which was not asked earlier. So just to remain on the topic and ask Christian, because we have a question from. Angelina. Online. From Bulgaria. Angelina? No. Angelina is not connecting. Three. Two. One. No. Okay. Angelina, we can come back to you after the midday if necessary. Stefan, would this be for Christian again? No. Okay. Christian? No, because it's round two for Christian. So we changed topic. Stefan.

[13:22:50] Speaker 1 [EN]
Yes. On Serbia's elections, I wanted to ask whether you tend to have intention to assist a smooth transition in the students' lists in taking over the government. And whether this newest development in Serbia might have an impact on the enlargement report for Serbia, whether it might be maybe delayed. I think it's planned for next week. And maybe finally, more historical question, whether you regret that you stick to President Vučić as your preferred interlocutor as he is accusing you to be behind the victory of the opposition. Thank you.

[13:23:30] Speaker 3 [EN]
Thank you for the questions. First, on the elections. So we take note of the preliminary results of the parliamentary elections in Serbia. And we congratulate the student list on its victory. As President Vladimir said, over the weekend, people of Serbia turned out in record numbers to shape the country's future. Serbia belongs to the European family, and the Commission welcomes the ambition for democracy, the rule of law from the winning list. This provides now an opportunity for Serbia to advance on its EU accession path. The Commission stands ready to work closely with the future government and support reforms under rule of law, media freedom, the fights against corruption, and strong democratic institutions. So the EU remains fully committed to advancing Serbia's future in the EU.

[13:24:26] Speaker 4 [EN]
And. Sorry. Yes. And you mentioned briefly Guillaume, President von der Leyen, also congratulating the student list on its victory over the weekend. And obviously, we will work with the new government, as we do with any freely elected government. It's in our interest to advance the discussions to the advance reforms on the rule of law, the media freedom, the fight against corruption, with the Serbian authorities. Yes, Stefan.

[13:25:01] Speaker 1 [EN]
Yeah. I'm sure that you will work with the future government. But my question was more on the transition, because that's quite a delicate part now. As the actual government will try to sabotage the transition, maybe. So what do you see a role in this transition for the Commission or for its representatives there? And my question was also in referring to the progress report. Will it be delayed, or will the election result have an impact on the substance? Thank you.

[13:25:30] Speaker 3 [EN]
Look, when it comes to the transition, it is for the national authorities, for the here the student list to organize themselves to form a government, a parliament, and others. The Commission stands ready to support the work on the reforms. As I said, so it's very important to mention that Commissioner Kos already had a first contact with the leader of the student list. And she did discuss EU accession, the reforms, and others. And again, she said that we stand ready to support this work in the future moving forward. When it comes to the enlargement package, work is still ongoing. The indicative timing, again, indicative timing is to have it adopted next week. So that's all I can say at this stage.

[13:26:24] Speaker 4 [EN]
Other questions for Guillaume, please.

[13:26:30] Adrian Bakic (Slovenian public broadcaster) [EN]
Adrian Bakic, Slovenian public broadcaster. Following the elections in Serbia and also encouraging messages from the European Commission saying it can be a new start for the European path of Serbia, the Slovenian Prime Minister wrote on his social media that Slovenia would not give its consent to any progress in Serbia's EU accession negotiations until Serbia handed over to Slovenia all the archives from the former Yugoslav Secret Services concerning Slovenia. How do you comment on that? And do you see such demands legitimate, especially connecting them to the enlargement process? Thank you.

[13:27:08] Speaker 3 [EN]
Thank you. The enlargement process is a merit-based process. And we assess the progress across all the EU policies and fundamentals, including the rule of law and democratic criteria. Bilateral issues are not part of accession negotiations. As we stressed many times, good neighborly relations and good relations with member states are an essential element of the enlargement process. And parties concerned should always address these issues in a very constructive spirit.

[13:27:43] Speaker 4 [EN]
Good. Let me see who hasn't had the occasion yet to ask a question. Go ahead. You had it.

[13:27:52] Vince Chadwick (Rapporte) [EN]
Thank you, Vince Chadwick from Rapporte. Question for Guillaume about fraud and foreign aid. So in November 2024, the Commission received a provisional audit on the organization of African Caribbean Pacific states. Finding many things, notably hundreds of thousands of euros that had gone to phantom school fees claimed by employees where there was no evidence that they had any children or that they were at the British school in Brussels. The Commission froze funding and then that was two years ago. So I guess my question is, you were in February 2025, you said you were looking into it. We're now in October 2026. So I guess the question is, what have you found? What have you done? Has anyone been held responsible? Are you still funding this organization? Thank you.

[13:28:44] Speaker 3 [EN]
Thank you for the question. So happy to provide an update on the situation. So the European Commission has launched a series of audit to review the proper use of EU funds provided to the OACPS secretariat. So these audits have been finalized. And they have identified issues such as missing documents or ineligible expenditures. So this led also to a contradictory procedures and we another re-evaluation of the ineligible expenditures. In parallel, now the Court of Auditors, European Court of Auditors, has also launched an audit and these findings are also being into account, being taken into account when it comes to the closure of contracts between the EU and the secretariat. So at this stage, and until this work is fully finalized, the EU has not resumed its financial support to the secretariat. It's a very important also we want to mention we wish to recognize as well that the measures taken by the new leadership of the OACPS secretariat to resolve the outstanding issues identified by the audits that I just mentioned, the independent audits, and more generally by reinforcing the secretariat administrative and financial capacities. That's the update I can provide.

[13:30:07] Speaker 4 [EN]
Good. Okay. And we have time for one final question today. Yes, please. Also for Guillaume.

[13:30:18] Speaker 2 [EN]
Oh, Barbara Maxová, Czech Television. I have a question connected to the situation in the Czech Republic. Because the last week, Czech Parliament advanced the bill to its second reading. And this bill would abolish license fees for public service media. And would found Czech Radio and Czech Television directly from the state budget. Moreover, this proposal has rise serious concerns about the independence of public media service in the Czech Republic. So my question is, what does the European Commission think about these developments? And are these Czech government plans in line with the European media freedom act? Thank you very much.

[13:31:08] Speaker 3 [EN]
Thank you. Yes. Thank you.

[13:31:10] Speaker 4 [EN]
Go ahead, Guillaume, stepping in for Marcus also today.

[13:31:14] Speaker 3 [EN]
So what I can say is that we are indeed aware of the Czech Parliament's chamber of deputies who approved the bill at first reading on Saturday. And now we're continuing to follow closely the developments in the process.

[13:31:28] Speaker 4 [EN]
Good. And this brings us to a close of our midday today. Wish you very good afternoon. Thank you to our interpreters. And see you tomorrow.