Czech Business Today
EU budget framework negotiations begin
At the beginning of May, the European Commission published its proposal for the future Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for the period 2021-2027.
Although the proposal needs to be discussed and approved by the European Parliament and Member States in the Council, it has already triggered lively discussions. Therefore, the future MFF has been the main topic of a debate organised by the EC Representation in Prague, Information Office of the European Parliament in Prague, Confederation of Industry of the Czech Republic and CEBRE on 25th May in Prague. To create a balanced budget proposal, the Commission had to react to new challenges but also continue supporting successful ongoing initiatives. Furthermore, the gap of 84 bn. EUR in the budget created by Brexit had to be taken into account, therefore some cuts were necessary as well, mainly in the cohesion policy and common agricultural policy. Furthermore, the budget line focused on security, defence and border management had to be strengthened. The number of programmes was reduced from 58 to 37, added Petr Mooz from DG Budget of the European Commission. For MEP Martina Dlabajová, the MFF is the key topic that will have major effect on the future of the EU. Therefore, she welcomes the idea of supporting projects with the biggest European added value. The Czech Republic welcomes the idea of increasing effectiveness and overall simplification in the budget. However, it is eagerly awaiting the most important part, specific proposals defining the details of various programmes.
