New EU leadership unveils vision: Jobs, climate, defense as key priorities

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - The EU's new leadership team on Monday issued a rallying call for unity and progress, emphasizing better employment opportunities, combating climate change, and bolstering defense capabilities as their top priorities.

In their first joint appearance since assuming their roles, Antonio Costa, president of the EU Council, Ursula Von Der Leyen, president of the European Commission, and Roberta Metsola, president of the European Parliament, met at the European History Museum in Brussels.

The symbolic venue underscored their shared commitment to shaping the EU’s future while honoring its past.

During a tour of the museum, the leaders engaged in discussions before proceeding to a formal meeting.

The event culminated in a joint statement shared on social media marking the start of what they described as “a strong partnership for Europe.”

"The challenges ahead won’t be a walk in the park, but together, we can overcome them. Europeans expect results: good jobs, a healthy climate, and a stronger defence. United, we will deliver," it said.