Ursula von der Leyen delivers her State of the European Union speech in Strasbourg

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen delivers her State of the European Union speech in Strasbourg. This is an annual speech at the European Parliament, in which the head of the European Commission summarizes the Community's achievements so far, presents plans for the next year and talks about possible threats.

At the beginning of her speech, the President of the European Commission stated that "a stronger, independent Europe is emerging." At the same time, she said that "we are currently dealing with an openly hostile world."

In the face of the cold fragility of today's world, only Europe can provide Europeans with true sovereignty. The fate of Europe must remain in the hands of Europeans, continued von der Leyen.

Mentioning the threats, she pointed out, among others: noting that the EU's trade deficit with China has reached a critical point and "dialogue is needed" to redress the balance.

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After the speech, there will be a debate during which MEPs will evaluate the work of the European Commission and submit their own initiatives.