Αρχική σελίδα Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

I welcomed this final adoption of the new EU anti-corruption law, which establishes a harmonised criminal framework for combatting corruption across the EU. Every year, billions of euros from public budgets end up in the hands of perpetrators. Billions, that could otherwise be invested in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. To address this, the Parliament is introducing common minimum standards across the EU on corruption offences and penalties, including bribery, misappropriation, trading in influence, obstruction of justice, and illicit enrichment. Beyond defining criminal offences, the report also introduces new EU–wide sanctions.
Corruption-related offences are known to be difficult to investigate and uncover, as they are often committed by highly organised criminal networks. Therefore, this report is crucial in providing greater protection for citizens across the EU.

This report marks an important step towards balancing EU–US trade relations. Following the EU–US Turnberry framework agreement, the European Parliament has voiced its concerns over the Commission’s unfair Joint Statement regarding trade between the two parties, with the European Parliament claiming that it favours United States producers and goods over those of the Union. Therefore, it was important for me to vote in favour of these new provisions that amend the initial agreement by providing more fairness and clarity for the EU. That means: no higher tariffs, no more threats of tariffs, and no security threats against the EU Member States.