During the 5 to 8 February plenary session in Strasburg, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) pressed the Council for progress on a new mechanism to tackle cross-border obstacles. 

They urged member states to reach an agreement with the Parliament before the June 2024 EU elections. 

The proposed mechanism aims to eliminate legal and administrative barriers, strengthening cooperation and benefiting the EU economy. EP rapporteur Sandro Gozi highlighted potential economic gains and emphasized the simplicity and voluntary nature of the Commission's new proposal. Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hadja Lahbib, representing the Council presidency, acknowledged the importance of cross-border cooperation but cited the need for time to analyze member states' positions, possibly delaying negotiations. 

MEPs welcomed the support but urged swift action, emphasizing the benefits of cross-border cooperation for peace, public services, business development, and citizen integration. The proposed mechanism follows Parliament's call for a new legislative proposal after the Council's failure to adopt the initial European Cross-Border Mechanism in 2018.

Read the complete press release here!