Ministers also continued their exchange on the respect of human rights and the rule of law, which are increasingly becoming a matter of concern in Europe. They welcomed willingness to continue this discussion during the Estonian Presidency.
German Minister for Europe and chair of the network Michael Roth stated:
“The lack of discussions on creating European social rights is a matter of great concern. Rebalancing social rights and economic freedoms is essential for the good functioning of the single market and Europe as a whole. Protecting workers, especially now, and especially those involved in the digital economy must be our top political priority. Reflection papers are not enough. What Europe needs is a concrete Action Plan with clear and understandable proposals, such as strengthening the youth guarantee, introducing a child guarantee and legislation ensuring all workers have decent pay, working conditions, and adequate social protection. It is time to make Europe more social.”
The meeting was also attended by
- Sandro Gozi, State Secretary for European Affairs of Italy
- Helena Dalli, Minister for European Affairs and Equality of Malta
- Margarida Marques, State Secretary for European Affairs of Portugal
- Ivan Korčok, State Secretary for Foreign and European Affairs of Slovakia
- Ann Linde, Minister of EU Affairs and Trade of Sweden
- Frans Timmermans, First Vice-President of the European Commission
- Maria João Rodrigues, Vice-President of the S&D Group in the European Parliament
- Frazer Clarke, S&D Deputy Secretary General in the European Parliament
- Yonnec Polet, Deputy Secretary General of the PES
- Giorgos Katrougalos, Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece (observer)