EU Leaders Adopted the Declaration on the Protection of One Europe

During informal meeting in Sibiu, the heads of state and government of the EU countries discuss the 2019-2024 EU Strategic Agenda. The participants of the informal summit of heads of state and government of the European Union on Thursday, May 9, in Sibiu (Romania) adopted the Declaration with 10 commitments supported by all 27 European countries. The document is published on the eve of the anniversary of the elections to the European Parliament — the first time the Europeans have elected the members of the legislative body of the EU exactly 40 years ago. Among the commitments undertaken by the EU countries is the protection of one Europe, as well as the readiness to play the role of a “responsible global leader” and to protect democracy and the rule of law. More investment in artificial intelligence The Sibiu Declaration was adopted against the background of uncertainty with Brexit postponed until October 31. The participants of the informal meeting discuss the upcoming change of leadership of the community institutions, elections to the European Parliament, the 2019-2024 EU Strategic Agenda, as well as Iran's rejection of part of its obligations under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action  (JCPOA). “We must be innovative, strong and united. We will take a stand today for this”, –said German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the opening of the summit. French President Emmanuel Macron, in turn, said that Europe should increase investment in the digital sphere and artificial intelligence to compete with China and the United States in these areas. The informal EU summit in Sibiu takes place on Europe Day – a holiday to strengthen the unity of Europeans. Elections to the European Parliament will take place May 23 -26. In total, there will be 751 members in the EU legislative body. DW