Seán Kelly (PPE). – A Uachtaráin, the Energy Charter Treaty plays a key role in energy policy across Europe. However, in the absence of any substantial update of the ECT since the 1990s, it is clear that the modernisation of the Treaty is due. I welcome efforts by the EU and its Member States to drive the modernisation process of the Energy Charter Treaty, particularly on investment protection standards and the fostering of sustainable development.
I also welcome the position to end protections granted to investments in economic activities considered to be significantly harmful and that undermine the EU’s climate objectives. It is clear the Energy Charter Treaty is in need of reform, particularly given the current energy crisis and the fight against climate change.
I therefore call on the European Commission and EU Member States party to the ECT to support its modernisation and to ratify the modernised treaty.