Last week, Renew Europe MEPs held a lively exchange of views with the candidate for the next President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. 

Renew Europe expressed concerns with the EPP's cooperation with the far-right ECR Group and outlined its priorities, on defence and security, competitiveness and resolute red-tape cutting, as well as their commitment to the rule of law and the need to respect the Green Deal.

More than two hours of an intense & demanding Q&A session with @vonderleyen.#RenewEurope’s support is conditioned on undisputable values & principles that can not be undermined, especially #RuleofLaw & democracy.

Deals with the far-right are unacceptable for us. pic.twitter.com/UgpUVsBooE

— Renew Europe (@RenewEurope) July 10, 2024

Renew Europe sought guarantees on institutional reform to strengthen the role of the Parliament and reform the Union. 

"Talks on building a pro-European coalition to renew Europe are at a decisive moment. Nothing is agreed until everything is agreed,” said Renew Europe President Valérie Hayer MEP.

This morning, we auditioned European Commission EPP candidate @vonderleyen. Our debates were frank, our expectations as well.

Stakes are high for the next executive. The five years to come will be paramount for the protection of the rule of law and the fundamental values that… pic.twitter.com/MC85kt5RHy

— Valérie Hayer (@ValerieHayer) July 10, 2024

“Renew Europe has grave concerns about the EPP's willingness to make deals with the far-right in this house and we urge a change of course. The Europe of tomorrow will be built from the political centre, not on the backs of populists and extremists.  

“Without our support, no stable pro-European majority is possible. We are ready to work for an agreement, but our negotiating partners must adequately meet our expectations and demands."