Ms. Von der Leyen secured another five-year term as head of the European Union's executive body with 401 votes in favor and 284 against in a secret ballot at the 720-member European Parliament.
Ursula von der Leyen was elected President of the European Commission for a second term at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, on July 18, 2024. Photo: AP
In her speech to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Von der Leyen outlined a program focused on prosperity, security, global economic competitiveness, and climate change.
"The next five years will determine Europe's place in the world for the next five decades. It will decide whether we shape our own future or let it be shaped by events or by others," Von der Leyen said before the vote.
After pledging support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, Von der Leyen stated that European freedoms are under threat and that Europe must invest more in defense.
Former German Defence Minister Von der Leyen has pledged to create "a true European Defence Union," with key projects focusing on air defense and cybersecurity. This plan has drawn criticism from Russia, which argues that it reflects an attitude of " militarization and confrontation."
Defense policy in Europe has historically relied heavily on NATO. But following the Russia-Ukraine conflict and amid political uncertainty in the US, the European Commission is seeking to promote more joint EU defense projects.
Von der Leyen also promised a series of climate policies, including a legally binding EU target of cutting emissions by 90% by 2040, compared to 1990 levels. She also pledged new measures to help European industries maintain competitiveness.
Hoang Anh (according to AP, Reuters, CNA)
Source: https://www.congluan.vn/ba-von-der-leyen-tai-dac-cu-chu-tich-uy-ban-chau-au-hua-tang-cuong-quoc-phong-post304067.html
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