3. Statements by the President

Verbatim reports

The President made a statement from Strasbourg in which he expressed his solidarity with the people of the city and the French authorities.

The President recalled the terrorist attack on Strasbourg on 11 December 2018 in which a number of people had been killed. He expressed his condolences to the families and friends of the victims.

The President stated that Parliament was keen for its plenary sittings to return to Strasbourg. He pointed out that Parliament had shown its democratic responsibility during the pandemic and had continued to exercise its prerogatives.

The President then paid tribute to the memory of Valéry Giscard d’Estaing, who had died on 2 December 2020, and in whose honour Parliament would hold a formal sitting on 2 February 2021.

Parliament observed a minute’s silence.

The President made a statement in which he emphasised that the European Union should continue to spearhead a green transition and highlighted the importance of the Paris Climate Agreement.

He mentioned the important votes that would be held that week, including on the budget and matters relating to the rule of law.

The President recalled that it was the 25th anniversary of the Dayton Peace Agreement and emphasised how important reconciliation in Bosnia-Herzegovina was for future generations.

The following spoke: Virginie Joron.