misclassified/meps_speeches huggingface dataset:
Inauguration of the new President of the United States and the current political situation (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2021-01-20

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Madam President, today the entire world is looking at Washington DC as Mr Joseph Biden is inaugurated as the 46th President of the United States. President Biden deserves all the best wishes for the enormous challenges that are lying ahead of him. Today’s inauguration certainly opens a new chapter for our American friends, but it also opens a new chapter in our transatlantic relations, which have been under such tremendous pressure since 2017. Strategic goals are important. They are crucial for our relations, to renew the trust that is at the heart of our alliance, to agree on a common strategy to address global challenges, and to adapt our political, military, technological and economic cooperation, so that we have the most effective alliance for protecting freedom, securing peace and supporting a rules-based order in an increasingly challenging world.
As Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pointed out this morning, there are certainly massive challenges we should tackle jointly, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the economic recovery, trade and digital technology, climate change and, of course, foreign policy and security issues. So let us give a fresh impetus to our transatlantic relations. Things can only get better, and I am convinced they will get better.
Presentation of the programme of activities of the Portuguese Presidency (continuation of debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2021-01-20

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, dear colleagues, first of all, Prime Minister Costa, the Presidency of the Council under your leadership has begun during unprecedented times. As we heard this morning, important priorities are on your agenda, such as tackling the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring Europe’s economic recovery. Colleagues, I welcome in particular the fact that Portugal has decided to focus strongly on external affairs in the upcoming months. As we discussed yesterday with the High Representative during the debate on our common foreign and security policy, strengthening multilateralism and affirming the European Union as a global player is today more important than ever, and our Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is leading a geopolitical Commission, and this for good reasons. 
Prime Minister, the proposals from the Portuguese Presidency to strengthen the EU’s relations with India, with the African continent, and indeed with Latin America, especially Mercosur, are a key step in promoting the role of the European Union on the global stage. The next months will also be decisive in establishing a fruitful cooperation with the United Kingdom and with the new administration in the United States. For all these priorities I wish her success. The Committee on Foreign Affairs is looking forward to working closely together with the Portuguese Government.
(Applause)
The arrest of Aleksei Navalny (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2021-01-19

  David McAllister,  on behalf of the PPE Group. – Madam President, dear colleagues, I am very concerned and strongly condemn the arrest of Mr Aleksei Navalny upon his return to Russia, just as I am very concerned and condemn the detention of several dozen of his supporters and journalists across the country. The arrest of Mr Navalny and its modalities clearly contravene international law and the Russian constitution. I urge the authorities in Moscow to release him and his supporters immediately. Their rights need to be fully and unconditionally respected and enforced. 
These latest developments further deteriorate the already strained relations between the European Union and Russia. The intimidation and political persecution of government critics in Russia must stop. Dear Josep Borrell, I am thankful for your strong and clear words immediately after the arrest of Mr Navalny, and again this afternoon. Indeed, the politicisation of the Russian judiciary is unacceptable. 
The poisoning and the arrest of Mr Navalny are just the latest of many arguments to reassess our relations with Russia. As the European Union, we should be very clear in our response and expand the so far introduced sanctions to individuals implicated in his arrest and those who gave orders to do so. As of December 2020, the EU has the instrument of a global human rights sanctions regime. We shouldn’t hesitate to use this tool when and where necessary.
Future Relations between the EU and the UK (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-12-18

  David McAllister,  on behalf of the PPE Group. – Madam President, as we have just heard, in less than two weeks the United Kingdom will leave the single market and the customs union and yet, until now, both sides have not been able to agree on our future partnership as of 1 January. The negotiations have indeed been intense and tough. They take place in an unprecedented environment and under extreme time pressure. The European Union has never negotiated an agreement with a third country of such scope, and only in nine months.
Let me first of all thank Vice—President Maroš Šefčovič and our chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, and their two teams, for their tireless work and the very good close and regular cooperation with the European Parliament, in particular during the recent weeks. The best solution for both sides would certainly be to reach a comprehensive agreement before the end of the year. This would provide clarity and this would provide predictability to citizens and businesses.
Yesterday, the Conference of Presidents emphasised that we, as the European Parliament, stand ready to organise an extraordinary plenary session towards the end of December, in case an agreement is finalised by midnight this Sunday. We stand ready to debate the outcome of the negotiations intensively as soon as possible, and we stand ready to thoroughly scrutinise the final text. But, one thing has to be very clear: this would be a unique scenario and cannot and will not serve as a precedent for future agreements.
There is a narrow path to an agreement, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Wednesday here in the plenary. Indeed, I welcome the substantial progress made on many issues. However, as we heard this morning, differences remain to be bridged, in particular on fisheries, and we all know this will be very challenging.
Since it is still not clear whether there will be an agreement in the end, we simply have to be prepared for all scenarios. The four targeted and time—limited contingency measures we will adopt today aim at limiting some of the most severe consequences in areas where no fall—back solutions exist. 
Disruption will happen with or without an agreement. This is the natural consequence of the British decision to leave the European Union and to no longer participate in our single market and customs union. I remain convinced that it is in our mutual interest to agree on a sustainable, a trustful and a balanced partnership with the United Kingdom, which is one of our closest partners and an ally.
Preparation of an EU Strategy on COVID-19 vaccination, including its external dimension (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-12-16

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Madam President, I remember in June, when we were discussing the external dimension of COVID-19 in this House for the first time, many colleagues emphasised this virus knows no borders, and we have heard similar statements today. And indeed, this is still valid today, and it is in particular valid for the EU’s strategy on the COVID-19 vaccination. This pandemic constitutes a challenge around the world. Consequently, it has to be tackled globally and by international cooperation. Most crucial is that we follow a systematic and coordinated global approach that focuses on international cooperation with like-minded partners to ensure universal and timely access to a vaccine and also focuses on solidarity with the most vulnerable countries to facilitate access to vaccines in a fair manner for all people across the world.
The COVID-19 pandemic is a wake-up call for the need for a strong and more united EU foreign security policy. It is high time for us as the European Union to promote more decisively our values and our interests worldwide. Our COVID-19 vaccination strategy will be an important component on the way to this goal.
Preparation of the European Council meeting of 10-11 December 2020 (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-11-25

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, intensive negotiations between the United Kingdom and the European Union have been taking place during the last weeks. We have heard this morning that both teams are working tirelessly, day and night, as well as over the weekends, to finally reach an agreement. 
In many fields indeed, texts have now been finalised. However, as the Commission President pointed out, the three major stumbling blocks related to the level playing field, to governance and fisheries remain, due to the British position. There are only 36 days left until the United Kingdom will have left the customs union and the single market, yet there is still no agreement and there’s still no text available. 
I want to point out that we cannot simply wait until the very last minute to agree on a text, since we as a Parliament have to scrutinise the final text, in the same way as we have been scrutinising the entire negotiation process. 
The United Kingdom will remain a close partner and ally of the European Union. For this reason we should use all our efforts to set the ground for fruitful cooperation beyond the end of the transition period. This will, colleagues, indeed require a certain degree of flexibility, creativity and pragmatism concerning our parliamentary procedures. 
But to be very clear, we as the European Parliament will have the last word. To give our consent we need to receive the text as soon as possible. Nobody should underestimate the risks that a late submission entails for the orderly start of our new EU—UK relations. Michel Barnier and his team are making the most of every opportunity to reach a deal in the interests of the European Union. On behalf of us all in the European Parliament, let me wish Michel Barnier good luck for the coming days, which certainly will be decisive.
(Applause)
Escalating tensions in Varosha following the illegal actions by Turkey and the urgent need for the resumption of talks (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-11-24

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Herr Präsident, sehr geehrte Damen und Herren! Leider müssen wir uns heute einmal mehr hier im Plenum mit dem aggressiven Verhalten der Türkei befassen. Um es gleich zu Beginn deutlich zu betonen: Das türkische Vorgehen in Varosia ist nicht akzeptabel. Als Europäisches Parlament stehen wir an der Seite Zyperns und verurteilen nachdrücklich diese weitere unnötige Provokation durch Herrn Erdoğan.
Für uns in der Europäischen Union sind der Maßstab für die Zukunft Zyperns die einschlägigen Resolutionen des Sicherheitsrates der Vereinten Nationen. Es darf eben keine Aktivitäten geben, die nicht im Einklang mit diesen Resolutionen stehen. 
Die türkischen Pläne für Varosia werden die Aussicht auf eine Lösung des Zypernkonflikts ernsthaft untergraben; darauf haben viele Vorrednerinnen und Vorredner hingewiesen. Sie sind – aus meiner Sicht – nach den illegalen Bohrungen in griechischen und zypriotischen Gewässern, dem bilateralen Abkommen mit Libyen sowie der Eskalation in Bergkarabach und in Syrien eine weitere destabilisierende türkische Aktion. 
Der Hohe Vertreter Josep Borrell verdient weiterhin unsere Unterstützung, sich um Deeskalation in der Region zu bemühen. Eine Lösung aller strittigen Fragen kann nur im Dialog aller Beteiligten und auf Grundlage des Völkerrechts erreicht werden. Damit solche Gespräche aber stattfinden können, muss die Türkei endlich von einseitigen Provokationen absehen. Ansonsten bleiben für die Europäische Union weitere Sanktionen natürlich eine Option.
Statt durch permanente Konfrontation sollten unsere Beziehungen zur Türkei durch Dialog und Kooperation geprägt sein, aber dazu muss sich die türkische Politik endlich wesentlich ändern.
The resumption of hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan in relation to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-10-07

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Mr President, High Representative, ladies and gentlemen, as colleagues have previously mentioned, the renewed escalation of violence in and around Nagorno-Karabakh puts at risk the fragile stability in the whole South Caucasus region. Of all territorial disputes of the post-Soviet states, this one is the most dangerous. As the European Parliament has repeatedly stated – and to be very clear once again – there is no, and there cannot be, a military solution to this conflict. Instead, a political settlement is necessary, in accordance with international law: for example, the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, the 1975 OSCE Helsinki Final Act, as well as the OSCE Minsk Group’s 2009 Basic Principles.
Therefore, we all call for an immediate halt to any military activity in the region. Both sides need to return to diplomatic dialogue without preconditions and in good faith. As many colleagues have already pointed out, third parties in the region should refrain from any action which can fuel the conflict and undermine the desire of the people from both countries for a peaceful future.
Situation in Iran (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-10-07

  David McAllister,  on behalf of the PPE Group. – Madam President, thank you Mr High Representative for your statement. I would like to echo your justified words on the urgent need to ensure the preservation and the implementation of the JCPOA by all parties. This multilateral agreement, as we have underlined many times in this European Parliament, is a crucial achievement of European diplomacy. It remains a key pillar of the global non—proliferation architecture, contributing to regional security and stability and it addresses Iran’s nuclear programme in a comprehensive manner.
Colleagues, in 2018 the Foreign Affairs Committee visited Iran and Saudi Arabia. We had very interesting talks in Riyadh and Tehran and our key message was consistently a de—escalation in the region is a must. Today, more than two years later, this is more needed than ever before and that’s why, dear High Representative, I would like to underline what you announced as regards the snapback mechanism. All parties involved should do their utmost to preserve the JCPOA and to refrain from any action that could be perceived as an escalation in this current situation.
(Applause)
Preparation of the Special European Council, focusing on the dangerous escalation and the role of Turkey in the Eastern Mediterranean (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-09-15

  David McAllister,  on behalf of the PPE Group. – Mr President, during the past weeks, we have witnessed an alarming military build-up in the Eastern Mediterranean. All of us are extremely concerned by the very real risk of a direct military confrontation. 
Last Thursday, in the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET), we discussed this dangerous escalation with the Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs for European Affairs of Greece and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey. It was a remarkable meeting in several aspects.
Listening to the comments of colleagues across party lines, for me four points are very clear. First, de—escalation is urgently needed. Second, we fully support the Council’s clear position of solidarity with our Member States, Greece and Cyprus. Third, we condemn the Turkish drilling activities in the exclusive economic zones of Greece and Cyprus, and we consider them illegal. Fourth, at the next European Council the option of additional sanctions against Turkey must be openly discussed in the light of continued Turkish aggression.
This conflict can only be resolved through dialogue and negotiations. I very much hope that the ongoing mediation efforts will bear fruit. But, as the High Representative just underlined, further concrete steps towards creating an environment conducive to dialogue in good faith are needed now. 
(Applause)
Situation in Belarus - Situation in Lebanon - Situation in Russia, the poisoning of Alexei Navalny (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-09-15

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Mr President, as the European Parliament we need to make clear firstly that we strongly support the protesting Belarusians and their demands for freedom, dignity, democracy and the right to choose their own destiny. Secondly, that we don’t recognise the results of the presidential elections held in Belarus on 9 August as they were conducted in flagrant violation of all internationally recognised standards, and thirdly that we condemn the ongoing intimidation and disproportionate use of force towards peaceful protesters, participants of strikes and members of the Coordination Council. 
High Representative, the restrictive measures targeted against those responsible for the repression in Belarus should be immediately implemented, they are certainly overdue.
The 2019 Human Rights Annual report - Stability and Security in the Mediterranean and the negative role of Turkey - Situation in Belarus (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-07-09

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Mr President, the recent Turkish escalations in the Mediterranean and the violation of the territorial integrity of Greece and Cyprus are challenging our partnership. As the European Parliament, today we should once again make it very clear that Turkish activities, like the illegal drilling in the exclusive economic zone of Cyprus, the violations of Greek airspace or the attacks on the Greek border are simply unacceptable. Turkey must take concrete steps to de—escalate the current situation. 
I would like to thank the High Representative, Josep Borrell, for his initiative to start, to restart a dialogue with Turkey. Indeed, Mr High Representative, we need to talk urgently. We need to talk urgently on the basis of firm principles and fully united as the EU-27.
Foreign policy consequences of the COVID-19 crisis - The PRC national security law for Hong Kong and the need for the EU to defend Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy - The EU's response to the possible Israeli annexation in the West Bank (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-06-18

  David McAllister,  on behalf of the PPE Group. – Mr President, as I am convinced that we should stand up for fostering the European Union strategic autonomy for promoting multilateral solutions and for defending our interests in a spirit of solidarity, I welcome today’s debate on the foreign policy consequences of the COVID—19 pandemic. 
We all know that this pandemic will not only lead to more medical, social and economic changes of a tremendous dimension, but it will also, as the High Representative and Vice—President, Josep Borrell, has pointed out, also be a potential geopolitical game changer. To name just a few examples, we are witnessing the deterioration of democracy and fundamental freedoms in many parts of the world, increasing disinformation campaigns, as well as cyber—attacks and isolationism instead of multilateral cooperation. As the European Parliament, we should make clear that unprecedented global threats arising from the pandemic call for strong and coordinated measures. 
I welcome that, in the months and weeks to come, all the committees for external policies in our Parliament want to focus even more on our global response. With today’s debate, but also with upcoming hearings as well as the reports the respective committees are working on, hopefully we can highlight the importance of the foreign policy dimension for the fight against a global pandemic and we can send a strong signal of solidarity with our partners across the world.
Preparation of the European Council meeting of 19 June 2020 - Recommendations on the negotiations for a new partnership with the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-06-17

  David McAllister,  on behalf of the PPE Group. – Mr President, it is now more than four and a half months ago since the United Kingdom decided to leave our European Union. 
From the very beginning, we in Parliament’s UK Coordination Group followed the negotiations for a new partnership thoroughly and sought to ensure a strong political consensus. We have closely been in touch with our chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, whom I would like to thank personally for the excellent cooperation. I also would like to thank Maroš Šefčovič, and we will all be seeing each other again in about half an hour’s time for the next meeting of the UK Coordination Group.
This report incorporates the opinions of no less than 17 committees. This is unprecedented, and it delivers a clear and strong message of unity. That’s why I would like to thank the rapporteurs, Kati Piri and Christophe Hansen, for their tireless work, but also the Chairs and the rapporteurs of all the opinion-giving committees.
Yes, indeed, the high-level conference decided that new momentum is required for the negotiations. The EU is ready to intensify the talks in July to create the most conducive solutions for concluding an agreement soon. This should be in the interest of both sides.
Conclusions of the extraordinary European Council meeting of 23 April 2020 - New MFF, own resources and Recovery plan (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-05-13

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Mr President, I would like to just make one additional remark after having listened to this debate for nearly two hours with great interest. This pandemic knows no borders; neither should the EU’s response. That is why the chairs of the committees in this Parliament who deal with external policies have issued a joint statement. We have called for close cooperation with our neighbours and partners, both in the fight against the pandemic as an imminent health issue and against its serious future consequences. 
In the past few weeks, we have seen remarkable efforts of cooperation and acts of goodwill, but we have also had to witness increased isolationism, harsh competition between nations for medicines and equipment, intense propaganda and disinformation by third countries, and a sharp rise in cyber—attacks. This shows this pandemic has a global meaning. It’s a global challenge. 
The Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) will be the main instrument to tackle this challenge we face within the European Union, but also to support our partners not only, but foremost, in our immediate neighbourhood. This has to be covered in the future MFF.
Migration situation at the Greek-Turkish border and the EU's common response to it (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-03-10

  David McAllister (PPE),  schriftlich. – Die Europäische Union ist sich der Anstrengungen der Türkei bei der Aufnahme und Verpflegung syrischer Flüchtlinge bewusst und unterstützt daher das Land seit 2016 enorm. Die Europäische Union darf sich jedoch nicht unter Druck setzen lassen. Die flüchtenden Menschen dürfen kein Spielball geopolitischer Interessen sein. Entscheidend ist: Wir brauchen Humanität und Ordnung an der türkisch-griechischen Grenze. Derzeit fehlt es an beiden. Eine Situation wie 2015 darf sich nicht wiederholen. Das bedeutet vor allem eines: Keine unkontrollierte Migration nach Europa. Um Ordnung sicherzustellen, müssen wir für einen wirksamen Schutz der EU-Außengrenzen sorgen. Die Ereignisse der letzten Wochen haben gezeigt, dass die Europäische Union in ihrem Denken und Handeln sowie in ihrer Kommunikation nach außen stärker, geeinter und strategischer auftreten muss. Es ist höchste Zeit, dass die EU einen humanen, wirksamen und umfassenden Ansatz für die Migration findet. Es ist ungemein wichtig, dass Kommissionspräsidentin Ursula von der Leyen den Dialog mit dem türkischen Präsidenten wiederaufgenommen hat. Ziel muss es sein, Migration zu ordnen, zu steuern und zu reduzieren.
Proposed mandate for negotiations for a new partnership with the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-02-11

  David McAllister,  on behalf of the PPE Group. – Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, the resolution on the draft mandate, which we are debating this morning, is the first proof of work of the newly created UK Coordination Group. As the Chair, I would like to thank all members of our group, as well as the involved Committees and the political groups, for their contributions in an extremely short period of time. In my opinion, the result is a very good and balanced resolution only nine days after Michel Barnier presented the Commission’s draft mandate.
Our resolution contains Parliament’s views on the content and on the architecture of a future EU-UK relationship. Let me highlight three main principles of particular importance.
Firstly, the integrity and the correct functioning of our internal market, the customs union and the Four Freedoms must be maintained. Secondly, a third country cannot have the same rights and benefits as a Member State of the EU. And thirdly, a level playing field is an overall priority and precondition for any future agreement. We should not, and we will not, enter a race to the bottom.
As Ursula von der Leyen has pointed out, together with our British friends, we should aim for a partnership that goes well beyond trade and is unprecedented in scope: everything from climate action to data protection, fisheries to energy, transport to space, financial services to security. We are indeed ready to design a new partnership with zero tariffs, zero quotas and zero dumping. However a free trade agreement with the UK will not be equivalent to frictionless trade.
Ladies and gentlemen, besides the negotiations on the future relations, the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement is of particular importance. This concerns especially citizens’ rights, financial duties on the protocol on Ireland-Northern Ireland.
Our chief negotiator Michel Barnier, whose work is highly appreciated across party lines in the institutions, has already assured us in the UK coordination group’s first meeting to keep Parliament fully informed at all stages of the procedure.
(Applause)
Withdrawal Agreement of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-01-29

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Madam President, for me, Brexit is and will remain a historic mistake. However, this Withdrawal Agreement provides now for an orderly exit of the UK from our EU by addressing all issues that have been of key importance for us in the European Parliament from the onset of the negotiations. We must now focus on our common future relations. I believe the EU should enter these negotiations from a position of certainty, good will, respect and mutual interest. At the same time, we need to acknowledge that our partnership will remain close, but will no longer be the same. We need to negotiate a truly ambitious and comprehensive new partnership with the UK, but because of the limited timeframe for negotiations, we cannot expect to agree on every single aspect of our new partnership. We will have to prioritise, as Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, has pointed out. 
I would like to thank all members of the Brexit Steering Group for the very good work they have done, and I hope to continue their good work in the UK Coordination Group, which I’m honoured to chair. More than 100 meetings of the Brexit Steering Group is an impressive track record. Let me thank our colleagues, staff and especially Mr Guy Verhofstadt for his excellent work.
Annual report on the implementation of the common foreign and security policy - Annual report on the implementation of the common security and defence policy (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-01-14

  David McAllister,  Rapporteur. – Madam President, the High Representative and Vice—President just spoke about many issues. Since we're running late, I would suggest that I keep it very short. I would just like to thank you all for your contributions. I would like to thank you for an honest and open debate. It was a pleasure for me to witness that a majority of speakers in this House is in favour of acting towards a stronger common foreign and security policy of our European Union. A lot of work lies ahead of us. I have, in particular, the ongoing negotiations on the next multiannual financial framework in mind in these upcoming negotiations. Dear Mr Borrell, we not only have to ensure the adequate financing but also the coherence, the effectiveness, the responsiveness and the flexibility of our external financing instruments. Let me also finally thank the High Representative – not only we are still here in the plenary but also he himself, for many, many hours now. I think this shows the respect that the High Representative is showing for the European Parliament.
Situation in Libya (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2020-01-14

  David McAllister,  im Namen der PPE-Fraktion. – Frau Präsidentin, meine sehr geehrten Damen und Herren, liebe Kolleginnen und Kollegen! Wir haben es gerade vom Hohen Vertreter gehört: In Libyen spielt sich ein politisches Drama ab, und zwar ein politisches und humanitäres Drama – direkt vor unserer Haustür. Dieses Drama hat viel zu lange viel zu wenig Beachtung gefunden. Die Zahlen der Vereinten Nationen sind bekannt: Seit Beginn der Offensive von General Haftar im April haben nach Angaben der UN über 1 100 Menschen ihr Leben verloren, es gibt über 340 000 Binnenvertriebene, und 900 000 Menschen sind auf humanitäre Hilfe angewiesen, davon zwei Drittel Frauen und Kinder. Die Not ist groß.
Ich finde, die seit Sonntag geltende Waffenruhe in Libyen ist ein Schritt nach vorne. Das Land und die Menschen brauchen jedoch – das haben wir gehört – einen dauerhaften Frieden. Die Bundesregierung und speziell die Bundeskanzlerin unterstützen seit geraumer Zeit Aktivitäten, einen dauerhaften Frieden in Libyen herzustellen. Und diese Konferenz, Herr Hoher Vertreter, die nach meinem Kenntnisstand am nächsten Sonntag in Berlin stattfinden wird, soll eben dazu einen aktiven Beitrag leisten.
Was wir auch als Vertreter eines Europäischen Parlaments klar sagen müssen, ist: Das ist nicht das erste Mal, dass wir diesen Konflikt debattieren. Alle Staaten, die an diesem Konflikt direkt oder indirekt beteiligt sind, müssen dafür sorgen, dass dieser Bürgerkrieg endlich beendet werden kann und Frieden in Libyen einkehren kann. Libyen soll künftig ein souveränes, ein friedliches Land sein. Erst wenn das gelingt, können wir über den Wiederaufbau konkret sprechen, und dann wird es auch eine besondere Aufgabe der Europäischen Union sein, Unterstützung zu geben.
Situation of the Uyghur in China (China-cables) (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2019-12-18

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Madam President, the credible reports that have reached us on the treatment of Uyghurs and other minorities in Xinjiang are indeed deeply worrying. Three points are now, from my point of view, of utmost importance. Firstly, the practice of arbitrary detentions without any charge, trial or conviction for a criminal offence of Uyghur or other Muslim minorities must be ended immediately and the detained persons should be released unconditionally. Secondly, the authorities in Beijing should allow free and unhindered access to Xinjiang for journalists and international observers, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. And thirdly, the full details of persons disappeared in Xinjiang should be released and handed over to their families. In their joint statement issued after the 21st EU—China Summit, the EU and China reaffirmed that all human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated, so it’s up to Beijing to put these words into action. I welcome, Mr High Representative/Vice—President, your clear words this afternoon, and I welcome the draft resolution we will adopt tomorrow noon – especially the call for targeted sanctions.
Macro-financial assistance to Jordan (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2019-12-16

  David McAllister,  im Namen der PPE-Fraktion. – Herr Präsident, Herr Kommissar, meine sehr verehrten Damen, sehr geehrte Herren, liebe Kolleginnen und Kollegen! Gestatten Sie mir als Vorsitzendem des Ausschusses für auswärtige Angelegenheiten einige wenige Anmerkungen zu diesem Thema. Wir haben es eben gerade sowohl von der Berichterstatterin wie auch vom Herrn Kommissar gehört – Jordanien steht vor enormen Herausforderungen: Die Wachstumsrate sinkt, die Staatsverschuldung wird größer, und die Arbeitslosenquote insbesondere unter jungen Menschen steigt. Viele äußere Umstände haben zu dieser Entwicklung beigetragen. Als Nachbarland von Syrien und als Nachbarland von Irak ist Jordanien unmittelbar von den schrecklichen bewaffneten Konflikten in der Region betroffen. Laut jordanischen Angaben – Kommissar Gentiloni hat diese Zahl gerade eben bestätigt – befinden sich derzeit rund 1,3 Millionen – 1,3 Millionen! – Syrer in Jordanien. Trotz der enormen Belastung für Staat und Gesellschaft ist der Umgang des Landes mit dieser schwierigen Situation vorbildlich.
Deshalb ist es so wichtig, dass wir als Europäische Union dem Ersuchen Jordaniens um eine makrofinanzielle Hilfe in Höhe von 500 Millionen Euro geschlossen zustimmen. Ich werde selber am 4. und 5. Januar in Jordanien vor Ort sein. Herr Kommissar Gentiloni, ich kann Ihnen nur zustimmen, dass wir als Europäisches Parlament dem Vorschlag der Kommission folgen sollten, um unserem Partner und unserem Verbündeten Jordanien weiterhin unter die Arme greifen zu können.
Turkish drilling activities in EU waters in the Eastern Mediterranean (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2019-11-13

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Mr President, the European Union has repeatedly called on Ankara to cease its illegal activities in the eastern Mediterranean, but Turkey has continued its drilling operations within Cypriot international waters. Let’s be very clear, these activities are illegal under international law. They reflect the regrettable change of Turkish foreign policy and they have a negative impact on Turkey-EU relations. 
Madam High Representative, I welcome the adoption by the EU Foreign Affairs Council of a legal framework for possible sanctions against individuals and entities that are involved in the drilling activities, but as Mr Michael Gahler pointed out, now the names need to be added to the list. These sanctions are a necessary step to put pressure on Turkey to respect the sovereignty of Cyprus and therefore the integrity of our European Union territory.
The Turkish military operation in northeast Syria and its consequences (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2019-10-23

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Madam President, the Turkish military operation in north—eastern Syria is yet another devastating event in an extremely tragic conflict. It has serious humanitarian, military and political repercussions, it causes suffering for the local people and it may contribute to a resurgence of Islamic terrorism. I would like to underline what colleagues, especially the group coordinators of the EPP, S&D and ALDE, have mentioned this morning.
I would like to inform you that this week in my capacity as Chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) I published, together with the Chairs of the Foreign Affairs Committees of Germany, France, the United Kingdom and also the US House of Representatives, a joint statement on the Turkish invasion. In our letter, we consider the abandonment of the Syrian Kurds to be wrong as the Syrian Democratic Forces massively contributed to the successful yet unfinished fight against Daesh in Syria. We deeply regret the decision of the President of the United States to withdraw American troops from north-eastern Syria and we call upon the European Union and the Member States to take responsibility and engage in the conflict resolution.
In our draft resolution that will be voted tomorrow, we also call for a strong and comprehensive EU reaction to this ongoing crisis. A final remark – I welcome initiatives to establish an internationally controlled security zone in north-east Syria. Such a zone could stabilise the region and make sure that rebuilding civilian life is possible again.
The UK’s withdrawal from the EU (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2019-09-18

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Madam President, I would like to underline a lot of things that have been said by colleagues this morning, but I would like to add mention of one dimension to a no—deal Brexit when it comes to foreign policy.
Michel Barnier was referring to the political declaration and, yes, in the political declaration the EU and the UK have agreed on a broad future relationship with a free-trade area, police and judicial cooperation, and close cooperation on foreign policy, external security and defence. Following a no—deal Brexit, the United Kingdom could no longer collaborate in existing and future projects of the European Defence Agency or in military projects under Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO). Moreover, it would be difficult for UK defence companies to participate in projects under the European Defence Fund.
These are additional arguments, dear colleagues from the far right, why it is so important to avoid a no-deal under all circumstances. I would like to welcome this motion for a resolution and I would like to thank our colleagues in the Brexit Steering Group for once again doing a great job.
(Applause)
Implementation of the EU Global Strategy (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2019-07-16

  David McAllister (PPE).   – Mr President, three years later the five priorities the EU Global Strategy outlined in 2016 remain valid: the security of Europe itself; a stable neighbourhood; an integrated approach to conflicts; cooperative regional orders; and an effective global governance.
Like other speakers, in particular, I welcome the increased defence cooperation between the EU Member States and the steps taken to increase our military autonomy. Still, the overall implementation of the strategy leaves room for improvement undoubtedly, but for a stronger and more coherent common foreign and security policy, the EU must among other points firstly better combine policies and tools ranging from diplomacy, security and defence, to finance, trade development and human rights. Secondly, we need to strengthen the coherence, effectiveness and the flexibility of our external financing instruments. And thirdly, we need to move to qualified majority voting in specific areas of the Common Foreign and Security Policy.
I’m thankful that the new Commission President Ursula von der Leyen mentioned the latter point in her speech this morning, and I would like to thank Federica Mogherini for the good work she has done on this Global Strategy.
Situation in Moldova (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2019-07-16

  David McAllister (PPE),  on behalf of the PPE Group. – Mr President, throughout the past legislature we held many debates on Moldova, and not a single one was positive. So I am more than happy, and let me admit, I am relieved that this country has finally begun turning from a captured state into a recovering democracy. Mr President, I think that the High Representative usually gets for floor first. I think the High Representative should perhaps give us an update first.
Situation in Moldova (debate)
Speaker: David McALLISTER (Germany, Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) / Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands)
Date: 2019-07-16

  David McAllister,  on behalf of the PPE Group. – Mr President, thank you so much for giving me the floor for the second time. Throughout the last legislature, we held many debates on Moldova in this plenary, and not a single one was positive. So I am more than happy – yes, I am actually relieved – that this country has finally begun turning from a captured state into a recovering democracy.
This is a huge victory for all the Moldovans who voted for change. Now the new Prime Minister, Ms Maia Sandu, has to tackle a number of challenges. Federica Mogherini just mentioned a number of them: the fight against corruption, the reform of the judiciary, the depoliticisation of the state administration, the electoral reform and a pluralistic media landscape with adequate financing and safeguards to protect journalists. 
A sustainable reform agenda for Moldova should be accompanied by a determined effort to heal the deep social divisions that we have seen in recent months, including a genuine commitment to inter-party dialogue in the Parliament in Chișinău. We will be welcoming Prime Minister Sandu in the Foreign Affairs Committee next Wednesday on 24 July. We will look forward to continuing the debate with her on that occasion.
Outcome of the EU-US summit (debate)
Speaker: Marco CAMPOMENOSI (Italy, Identity and Democracy Group / Lega)
Date: 2023-11-09

  Marco Campomenosi,  a nome del gruppo ID. – Signor Presidente, signora Commissaria, signora rappresentante del governo spagnolo, onorevoli colleghi, ovviamente questi incontri sono importanti e condivido assolutamente le parole pronunciate dalla Commissaria, però serve anche che noi, a livello europeo, maturiamo una consapevolezza su quali sono i nostri obiettivi politici e macroeconomici.
Continuare a perseguire, con una certa visione ortodossa, le visioni di un WTO che oggi non sono più attuali rischia di isolarci, perché gli Stati Uniti con l'IRA ci hanno dimostrato cosa si deve fare per attirare gli investimenti e la Cina, con la stretta sulle terre rare che esporterà sempre meno, ci creerà delle difficoltà. Quindi dobbiamo fare delle politiche che difendano la nostra produzione di acciaio e la nostra industria della difesa per attrarre anche noi investimenti e – attenzione – per proteggere catene del valore che, come ci insegna la crisi geopolitica gravissima che stiamo vivendo a livello mondiale, sono sempre più fragili. Ovviamente anche altri temi, come il ciberterrorismo, ci devono vedere protagonisti.
Attenzione anche a un altro aspetto: a livello legislativo abbiamo introdotto una tassazione delle emissioni alle imprese europee col sistema ETS e con altri strumenti, come il CBAM alle frontiere, che creeranno potenzialmente un rischio di competitività per le nostre imprese, perché i nostri partner internazionali ci hanno detto che questi strumenti non vorranno adottarli.
Quindi, secondo me, nei prossimi anni dovremo cambiare anche tipo di approccio: meno dirigismo e maggiore attenzione anche alle crisi sociali che ci saranno e che richiederanno un'attenzione economica e macroeconomica differente e meno attenta ai vincoli di mercati che non guardano all'impatto sociale di certe norme e accordi internazionali.
Fighting disinformation and dissemination of illegal content in the context of the Digital Services Act and in times of conflict (debate)
Speaker: Marco CAMPOMENOSI (Italy, Identity and Democracy Group / Lega)
Date: 2023-10-18

  Marco Campomenosi (ID).   – Mr President, I’m quite shocked about the support that this Parliament has given to the European Commission because honestly, right of speech should be something on which you should be more attentive.
Less than one year ago, this Chamber approved the Digital Services Act, and we are already witnessing the dangers of arbitrary enforcement of its policy. Of course, the aims are agreed by all of us, but if you are sincere, dear Commissioner, you should know very well how complicated it is to reach these aims.
In the dramatic clashes between Israel and Hamas, the Israeli Government, Ministers and army are using social media such as X, for example, to share information, documents and press releases. Both sides of the conflict are doing that. Social media are not the holders of a truth, but a mirror of the war, reflecting what is happening. Our role should not be to say what is good or bad, what is fake or true. In particular, it has just happened during the last terrorist attacks in Brussels. We have seen all of this.
But regarding the activity of social media, because this is particularly facing against X, X is the only platform which has open source algorithms, which is public access and which allows journalists to independently verify the news. It is a model of transparency in that way.
‘Freedom of speech, but not freedom of reach’ is a principle that they use, and which is deleting hateful content. Community rules, one notes, are working quite well, and you did not consider the fact that they deleted a lot of illegal content on child pornography and violence against children. You did not mention what happened with the so-called Twitter files, what has been done in the past against content which was not illegal, but which was not liked by the shareholders of the social media owners. 
This is the risk. The risk is that the DSA will cause the deletion of legitimate content and not content which is violating rules. So I am afraid citizens are not enough informed, because traditional media are playing a game because they believe that they will have an advantage.