Before Katainen launched into a ten point address regarding his vision of the future of the European Union, he expressed his condolences to the victims of the Boston marathon bombings, saying that Europe stands by its American friends.
The Finnish Prime Minister then went on to give a speech highlighting his personal concern at the predominance of pessimistic attitudes in Europe. He feels that EU discussion is dominated by extremes when the European Union should instead focus on presenting credible and practical ways to move forward.
Katainen said that he does not understand the nationalist and populist emphases or the drawing of lines of division between north and south.
According to him, a fair EU will progress through common values, respectful discourse and mutual adherence to rules.
“When we respect rules and the rule of law, we uphold democracy. This strengthens people’s ownership of European integration,” he said.
Call for moderation and unity
In his speech Katainen stressed the importance of the European Union as a peace project, saying that Finland can contribute to the debate on Europe’s future by offering a “moderate, integration-friendly middle way.”
Katainen said that "bail-out fatigue" was understandable, but also affirmed that the EU must help member states when help is needed. He also reminded the Parliament that each state bears the responsibility for keeping its own finances in order.
The most serious challenge for the EU, in Katainen’s view, is the creation of new jobs. He highlighted, in particular, youth unemployment, stating that the issue was in need of special attention.
The Prime Minister also criticised the EU’s energy policy as unfocused, stating that expensive subsidies for renewals have confused markets and that the union must turn its attention to building an internal energy market. Clean-tech and the Nordic energy model were cited as positive ways forward, and again, Katainen emphasized Finland as having a lot to offer in both regards.
Need for concrete action
Katainen wound up his address by reiterating the need for member states to abide by the rules, do their homework and follow a moderate, integration-friendly middle way.
“We need plenty of concrete action while making sure that European integration is based on common values and that the EU continues to be a value community,” he concluded.
