14.10.2026 - “Europe now needs an economic policy course that again allows companies greater scope for investment, innovation, and growth. This is especially true for the next Multiannual Financial Framework. A sustainable EU budget is not measured by its size, but by whether it strengthens Europe’s economic and geopolitical capacity to act. For this, more funds are needed for innovation and competitiveness, a more efficient use of European funds, and a more consistent focus on growth. Budget items that support these goals must not fall by the wayside in the negotiations. At the same time, European funds must flow more strongly to where quality, prospects for success, and European added value are greatest. In this way, the EU budget will become an effective lever for Europe’s investment and competitiveness.”