PESGAC Ministers outline unified positions for Europe’s strategic decisions ahead of the EUCO

Ministers responsible for European Affairs and representatives from the Party of European Socialists (PES) met for the last General Affairs Council of the year to shape their joint positions ahead of the European Council of 18-19 December. The meeting focused on the strategic issues expected to dominate leaders' discussions: the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), Ukraine, the Middle East, enlargement, migration, and Europe's economic and geopolitical competitiveness.

Participants stressed that the MFF 2028-2034 must match Europe's responsibilities at home and abroad. They reaffirmed that Europe "cannot do more with less", and called for a budget centred on social investment, climate ambition, sustainable competitiveness, strengthened capabilities for 360-degree European security and defence and continued support for Ukraine's recovery and path toward EU membership. Participants insisted that a strong cohesion policy that respects the role of local and regional authorities must be at the centre of the MFF.

The meeting voiced concern over proposals with implications for Ukraine's security and sovereignty, stressing that Ukraine's future as a free, democratic, and European nation is tied to the future of the Union based on its own merits. Progressives underlined that Europe must help shape this future with clarity, unity, and strategic purpose.

On the Middle East, participants warned of the continued violations of the ceasefire and the deteriorating humanitarian situation. They called for consistent EU engagement, full respect for international law, and a return to credible political pathways in support of the two states solution.

Progressives welcomed discussions on Simplification file, while cautioning against attempts to dilute workers' rights, environmental protection, safety rules, or digital regulation under this banner. They underlined that strong standards are a cornerstone of Europe's competitiveness and global influence. Simplification should not result in deregulation; it must strengthen harmonisation and our internal market.

Fernando Sampedro Marcos, Secretary of State for the European Union of Spain and chair of the meeting, said:

"In view of this week's European Council, our responsibility as progressives is to ensure that ambition, solidarity, and democracy remain at the heart of Europe's decisions.

A strong MFF, resolute support for Ukraine, a principled approach to the Middle East, and the defence of our social and environmental standards are essential for Europe's credibility and its capacity to act.

Europe must defend with unity and confidence in its social model, fundamental rights, and high standards - the foundations of our strength.

As global tensions rise, progressives stand ready to shape a Europe that protects, empowers, and leads."

With leaders set to address Ukraine, the Middle East, the next MFF, enlargement, migration, and Europe's global competitiveness in Brussels this week, the PES family reaffirmed that these priorities require unity, strategic clarity, and political courage. This coordinated approach equips progressive ministers to shape the European Council's outcomes, reinforcing peace, democracy, and social justice across the Union.