Ministers for European affairs discuss recovery package
In their informal videoconference on Tuesday 16 June, the ministers for European affairs discussed the recovery package proposed by the Commission to boost the Union’s economy following the COVID-19 crisis. This first ministerial discussion on the subject will provide a basis for the videoconference of EU leaders on Friday.
“Finland takes a constructive view of the Commission’s proposals for a revised multiannual financial framework and the recovery fund. The COVID-19 crisis has hit the economies of the EU countries hard. We need an effective one-off package to help speed up the economy. However, Finland cannot accept the Commission’s proposal as such. For example, the size of the package and the relationship between loans and direct payments must be examined. It is also important to make sure the funds are allocated effectively,” said Minister of European Affairs and Ownership Steering Tytti Tuppurainen.
The ministers also discussed the future relationship between the EU and the UK. Although progress on the negotiations has been worryingly slow, the UK is not asking for an extension of the transition period, which will end at the turn of the year.
“The EU’s Chief Brexit Negotiator Michel Barnier continues to have the full support of Finland and the other EU Member States. The EU is a constructive negotiating partner, but it is also important for us to stick to our principles, such as safeguarding the EU’s single market and open trade policy,” Minister for European Affairs Tuppurainen said.
Inquiries: Pilvi-Elina Kupias, Special Adviser, +358 295 160 995, Anne Sjöholm, Head of Communications for EU Affairs, tel. +358 40 537 0733, Prime Minister’s Office