Europe is facing a time of uncertainty and insecurity, making stable leadership more crucial than ever. European Commission Vice-President Margaritis Schinas emphasized the importance of maintaining strong leadership during a conference on the island of Nisyros. He highlighted the potential consequences of a crisis in leadership within the European political system, especially if European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen were to lose a vote of confidence in the European Parliament.
Schinas also reflected on the lessons learned by Europe in recent years, stressing the need for resilience and open strategic autonomy. He downplayed the rise of extreme right-wing populism in European elections, emphasizing the diversity and unity within the European Parliament.
In light of a possible Donald Trump victory in the US presidential election, Schinas suggested that it could serve as an opportunity to accelerate European integration. He called for a more proactive approach in areas such as defense, security, and economic competitiveness to ensure Europe’s stability and progress.
The Nisyros Dialogues, an annual event, provided a platform for discussions on key issues facing Europe and the world, under the auspices of President Katerina Sakellaropoulou and Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomaios.