Ursula von der Leyen's Vision for Europe's Future: A Second Term Blueprint

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made significant pledges on Thursday, seeking approval for a second term from the European Parliament. Her agenda covers critical areas including defence, economic policy, climate change, migration, and housing.

One of her flagship initiatives is to build a 'true European Defence Union,' including a single market for defence products and services. Von der Leyen also aims to more than double the staff at Europol and propose a European Air Shield and cyber defence projects. A White Paper on the Future of European Defence is also planned within the first 100 days of the next Commission.

On the economic front, von der Leyen announced the creation of a European Savings and Investments Union, aimed at leveraging private savings for innovation and clean transitions. She also proposed a European Competitiveness Fund and a 'Clean Deal Industrial Deal' to reduce import reliance and increase renewable energy share. Her climate change strategy includes cutting emissions by 90% by 2040 and adapting to worsening conditions like droughts and wildfires. Migration policies include tripling the number of European Border and Coast Guards and developing a new Visa Policy Strategy.

Additionally, von der Leyen plans to appoint commissioners for defence, the Mediterranean, housing, and enlargement, demonstrating her holistic approach to governance.

(With inputs from agencies.)