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Onsdagen den 4 oktober 2023 - Strasbourg

7.2. Ianspråktagande av Europeiska unionens solidaritetsfond för att ge bistånd till Rumänien, Italien och Turkiet (A9-0269/2023 - Katalin Cseh) (omröstning)

- Antes da votação:

  Katalin Cseh, rapporteur. – Mr President, dear colleagues, the report before us is of utmost importance. We are preparing to mobilise the European Solidarity Fund with aid earmarked for three countries: to Romania that has faced an extreme drought in its south-eastern region in the summer of 2022, to Italy that was hit by severe floods in the central regions in September 2022, and Türkiye that was devastated by earthquakes in its southern provinces in February 2023. And this financial assistance package totals EUR 454.8 billion, supporting crucial emergency operations, rescue services and infrastructure restoration efforts.

The EUSF stands as a vital instrument extending aid during natural disasters and health emergencies. It embodies European solidarity, serving as more than just a financial tool. It is a testament to our shared commitment to supporting one another in times of crisis.

However, our work doesn’t end here. The stark reality of climate change demands a proactive response, acknowledging the increased frequency of natural disasters. Our commitment to ambitious long-term climate action must remain steadfast, and I certainly hope there is no disagreement across the political aisle in this regard.

But we also need to increase immediate assistance to people who are suffering now. So reform and increased resources are urgently needed. The report advocates for just that: a faster and more efficient EUSF by ensuring sound financial management and transparency. Aligned with the mid-term review of the MFF, we call for a substantial increase in available resources. The Solidarity and Emergency Aid Reserve is at its limits and it must be equipped to respond swiftly to its escalating crises.

Also, regrettably, there have been attempts to question aid disbursement to Türkiye following devastating earthquakes, and we firmly reject any attempt to pit one country’s tragedy against another’s. Türkiye is a pre-accession country. It’s legally eligible for EUSF assistance. Attempts to obstruct aid based on populist sentiment are unfounded and divisive. So, in conclusion, I urge you to support this report as it stands. Let us reinforce our commitment to European solidarity.