Statement by President von der Leyen on the finalisation of national recovery plans under NextGenerationEU

Vaccination is gathering speed across Europe.

It is now essential that our economy, which was badly hit by the pandemic, also recovers rapidly.

And we have just entered a crucial phase for our recovery and for the future of our Union.

We have 750 billion euros, from our NextGenerationEU recovery plan, which we need to invest rapidly.

This will boost our social market economy and power our unique single market.

It will enable Europe to come out stronger from the crisis.

Right now, the governments of EU countries are finalising their National Recovery and Resilience plans.

And the Commission works hand in hand with them on the plans, around the clock.

Because we need to target these investments carefully, to make Europe fit for the future.

In the following weeks we will translate the recovery plans into legal texts.

We know where we want to get to,because we chose our objectives together,as 27.

We want to build a Green Europe,which protects our climate and our environment.And which creates sustainable jobs.

We want to invest in a digital Europe, innovative and competitive in global markets.

And we want a resilient Europe, which is better prepared to face future crises.

We have 750 billion Euros to build our future Union.

This is the opportunity of the century for Europe.

A truly historic moment.

The Commission will ensure that these plans reflectour high level of ambition.

We owe it to our citizens. And in particular to our young generation.