“Our aim to become stronger, more united and more competitive in an increasingly changing and hostile world needs to be backed up by sufficient resources. The pandemic, the invasion of Ukraine, climate change, energy and the cost of living crises, have all had their impact”. These are some of the reasons why European Parliament President Roberta Metsola asked the European Council for a decision on the EU’s multiannual budget (MFF). Addressing the EU heads of state or government meeting in Brussels, Metsola said: “This European Council therefore needs to reach an agreement, one that respects the prerogatives of the European Parliament as budgetary authority as laid down in the Treaties. One that finds a structural solution for managing the borrowing costs – and progress on own resources are part of this solution. One that preserves the Union’s shared values and will not compromise on the rule of law. One that ensures the EU can respond effectively to crises and unforeseen circumstances”. Metsola also called for convergence among the 27 in order to launch the new Migration and Asylum Pact, that has long been stalled. She called on EU leaders to “show leadership” on enlargement and support to Ukraine.