EP President at the Conference of Speakers of the EU Parliaments 

The President of the European Parliament, Antonio Tajani, was in Bratislava to participate in the Conference of Speakers of the EU Parliaments. The meeting focused on the future of Europe and setting up a Europol Joint Parliamentary Scrutiny Group.

President Tajani said:

"The only way to respond to populism is for Europe to deliver results. Unity is indispensable if we are to tackle illegal immigration, guarantee security, reduce unemployment and promote stability and our values around the world. Constant cooperation between European and national parliaments plays an essential role in promoting our goals.

The peoples of Europe have elected us. As a result, we have to pave the way towards a Europe that is closer to its people. Speaking of concrete measures, I am happy that we have crossed the finish line here in Bratislava when it comes to formalising cooperation between our Parliaments through the establishment of a Europol Joint Parliamentary Scrutiny Group.

The security of our citizens and the respect of their fundamental rights are one of our shared top priorities. This is why a better exchange of information and faster reaction to security threats are of crucial importance.  Parliamentary scrutiny will help deliver better results."

President Tajani also held bilateral meetings with Slovak Republic President, Andrej Kiska, and Prime Minister, Robert Fico. The leaders discussed the future of Europe, stressing their commitment to the Rome Declaration's implementation and Brexit, stressing the protection of citizens’ rights as top priority.

They also agreed that emphasising the importance of the stability of the Balkans is essential in taking the region forward.