Denmark outlines EU presidency priorities: security, green transition, and competitiveness

OSLO - Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Tuesday outlined Denmark's priorities for its six-month presidency of the Council of the European Union, with a strong focus on stronger security, green transition, and enhanced competitiveness.

Speaking before the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Frederiksen said Europe is facing its most serious challenges in decades, including the conflict in Ukraine, climate and biodiversity crises, migration pressure, and global trade tensions.

"We need to address the challenges head on. And we need to do it together," she said.

According to a press release from the Danish Prime Minister's Office, Frederiksen listed two overarching priorities for the presidency: building a more secure Europe and fostering a competitive, green economy.

On security, Frederiksen called for a stronger European defense industry and long-term support for Ukraine. She also stressed the need to reduce irregular migration and reinforce EU borders.

On economic competitiveness, she advocated for simplified EU regulations, support for innovation, and progress on climate goals, including an ambitious 2040 target. She called for more clean energy production, infrastructure investment, and diversification of trade partners.

Denmark's presidency of the Council of the European Union will run through the end of 2025.