TL:DR – Ursula von der Leyen urges EU nations to pursue smaller economic coalitions
• Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, proposed that member states form smaller groups for economic matters if consensus is not achievable before a key summit on 09/02/2026.
• Von der Leyen emphasised the need for an “ambitious” economic agenda agreed by all 27 member states, while allowing for enhanced cooperation.
• European leaders will gather for an informal retreat on 09/02/2026 at Alden Biesen Castle.
• A group of 10 countries, including France, will meet prior to the summit, led by Germany, Italy, and Belgium.
• Von der Leyen will launch an initiative to reduce bureaucratic “gold-plating” affecting European companies.
Von der Leyen pitches two-speed Europe ahead of Draghi crunch summit
Ursula von der Leyen Advocates for Enhanced Cooperation Among EU States
On 9 February 2026, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, suggested that member countries willing to collaborate on economic initiatives should form smaller coalitions if unanimity cannot be achieved ahead of a crucial summit. This move comes as the European economy faces pressure from the United States and China.
The implications of von der Leyen’s statement are significant, as it could lead to a new approach in European integration amidst political differences. She emphasised the importance of an “ambitious” economic agenda that includes all 27 member states but acknowledged the necessity of enhanced cooperation if progress stalls.
Ursula von der Leyen Comments on Enhanced Cooperation
In her letter to leaders, von der Leyen stated, “Our ambition should always be to reach agreement among all 27 member states.” However, she noted that if a lack of progress threatens Europe’s competitiveness, action should not be delayed. The principle of enhanced cooperation allows a minimum of nine countries to deepen integration independently of others.
This approach represents a notable shift from the existing consensus model and could facilitate a two-speed Europe. European leaders are expected to gather for an informal retreat at Alden Biesen Castle, where discussions will focus on implementing reports by prominent figures including Mario Draghi and Enrico Letta.
Preparations for the Summit
Prior to the summit, a group of 10 countries, including Germany, Italy, and Belgium, will convene to establish a common line, with France’s participation confirmed by a diplomat. Von der Leyen also outlined plans for the Commission to accelerate its simplification agenda and roll back on “gold-plating,” a practice criticised by European companies for adding unnecessary bureaucracy.
This initiative aims to reduce costs and regulatory confusion for businesses operating within the EU.
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