The European Parliament has debated a series of measures aimed at strengthening Europe's economy, including support for the automotive industry, new rules for innovative businesses and closer trade ties with Mexico. Slovak MEPs agreed that Europe must improve its competitiveness, although they differed on how this should be achieved.
On the automotive sector, MEP Monika Beňová (Smer-SD) said high energy prices continue to undermine the competitiveness of European manufacturers, while Ľudovít Ódor (PS) warned that Slovakia, as the EU's most car-dependent economy, must manage the transition to electric vehicles without sacrificing jobs. Branislav Ondruš (Hlas-SD) argued that current EU policies risk harming workers and called for fairer competition with non-European producers.
MEPs also backed proposals to expand the so-called EU Inc. framework, prepared by Slovak MEP Ľudovít Ódor, which aims to simplify tax and administrative rules for innovative companies operating across the European Union. According to Ódor, the reforms would make it easier for European start-ups to grow within the EU instead of relocating to markets such as the United States.
Parliament also approved agreements paving the way for closer political and trade ties with Mexico. Ľubica Karvašová (PS) described the deal as an economic opportunity for both the EU and Slovakia, while Martin Hojsík (PS) welcomed the removal of tariffs on many agricultural products. Branislav Ondruš, however, warned that the agreement could make it easier for companies to shift production outside the European Union, putting European jobs at risk.
Source: TASR
