EU Climate Targets Presented Amid Corporate Concerns
While CEOs articulated their concerns to the European Commission president, Teresa Ribera was presenting the bloc’s climate targets for 2040 just a few floors below, reports 24brussels.
Ursula von der Leyen’s center-right European People’s Party faces criticism for allegedly compromising the EU’s environmental agenda to maintain competitiveness. The visiting German executives appeared content that their interests were being considered.
Hendrik Wüst, the minister-president of North Rhine-Westphalia, noted that “president von der Leyen was listening very closely to the details.” He emphasized that they presented several significant topics, indicating a commitment to competitiveness. “We have received quite a strong signal from her,” Wüst added.
Wüst is affiliated with the Christian Democratic Union, von der Leyen’s party in Germany. In contrast, industry representatives from other EU nations have reported fewer opportunities for direct engagement with the Commission president. The Italian business confederation, Confindustria, indicated that Italian industrialists do not receive the same access.
Markus Steilemann, CEO of chemical company Covestro, highlighted the frequent meetings he has had with the Commission’s leadership, attributing this to his prominent role within both the European and German chemical sectors. “There have been numerous occasions,” he stated, underscoring the perceived preferential treatment.
This situation raises questions about the balance the EU must strike between climate ambitions and industry competitiveness, as member states continue to navigate the complexities of their unique industrial landscapes.
