State of the Union Address 2025 by Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission: statement by Marie Bjerre, Danish Minister for European Affairs
On 10 September 2025, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, delivered her 2025 State of the European Union address before the Members of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, presenting her priorities for the year ahead and outlining her vision for how the European Union could evolve by years. From this perspective, Ursula von der Leyen emphasised the critical need for Europe to maintain peace and independence, asserting control over defence, technology, and energy. The President reiterated strong support for Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia and proposed measures to finance the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine using immobilised Russian assets. She also addressed humanitarian concerns in Gaza, advocating for a two-state solution. Regarding the European economy, Ursula von der Leyen focused on boosting competitiveness through investments in digital and clean technologies and enhancing trade relations, particularly with the United States. Finally, she called for unity between Member States and institutions to overcome current challenges and secure the future of Europe. On this occasion, Ursula von der Leyen’s address was also followed by speeches and discussions with Members of the European Parliament. This video shows the statement by Marie Bjerre, Danish Minister for European Affairs and representative from the Danish presidency of the Council of the EU.
Show transcript
This transcript was automatically generated and may contain errors.
Now for the Council, the Minister for European Affairs, Marie Gray. President von der Leyen.
Mr President, Mazzola, honorable Members, I would like to thank the President of the
Commission for her address and her analysis of the challenges and opportunities facing us.
Europe needs a strong leadership in challenging time.
Madam President, you provide such strong leadership.
On a personal note,
I have to say I am proud that Europe has such a strong leader like you.
We need a Europe with a strong vision.
You said it very clearly and very strong. A new Europe must emerge. This is Europe's independence moment.
Europe should take control over its own security,
technology and energy, and stand up for its values.
Madam President, I note that several of the issues you mentioned today are completely in
line with the Danish Presidency's priorities a secure Europe and a competitive and green Europe. Let me highlight a few.
Our firm solidarity with Ukraine and its people at a crucial time,
and the need to support more.
Our RAM Europe Investment Plan to strengthen Europe's defense, industry and production,
so that we can defend ourselves by 2030 at the latest.
The need for the European Union to continue protecting the rule based international order,
especially in the light of the ongoing conflicts.
The need to find European solutions to fight irregular migrants, including effective returns,
the need to continue our simplification and burden reduction efforts to make the EU more competitive.
While staying true to our green goals.
As a basis for all this, a multiannual financial framework ready to deliver. On future challenges.
I will not go into further details here, but let me promise you that the
Council is ready to continue the good work with Parliament and the Commission on the priorities.
The Council discussed the Commission's letter of intent already on our meeting on 16 September.
This discussion among ministers aims to give input to the upcoming Commission work program for 2026.
We also look forward to working with Parliament and the Commission
on the Joint Declaration on the EU's legislative priorities for 2026.
We will keep in mind the need to deliver resolve for Europe,
to make Europe stronger, more secure, more competitive.
We share your vision, Madam President,
to give Europe the freedom and power to choose our own destiny. Thank you.
Thank you, now I give the floor to.
