ECR says AI deal falls short for Europe’s competitiveness ambition; Exchange of views with Kaja Kallas; 41st Carpathian Europe Forum

ECR says AI deal falls short for Europe’s competitiveness ambition

On Wednesday, the joint committees on Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) and Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) will vote on the European Parliament’s position regarding the Digital Omnibus on Artificial Intelligence. The proposal forms part of the European Commission’s digital simplification package presented in November 2025 and introduces targeted adjustments to the implementation of the EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act. The initiative aims to provide greater legal certainty for companies developing and deploying AI technologies while ensuring that the regulatory framework remains workable as the AI Act begins to take effect. For the ECR Group, the discussion on the AI Omnibus is an important opportunity to improve how Europe’s AI framework works in practice. While the current compromise contains some useful clarifications, it still falls short of addressing the growing calls from businesses, innovators and stakeholders who are increasingly concerned about Europe’s ability to remain competitive in the global AI race. Across the European innovation ecosystem, stakeholders have repeatedly warned that parts of the framework risk slowing down investment and deployment of AI technologies. The AI Omnibus offered a valuable opportunity to respond to these concerns. However, the current compromise does not yet fully reflect the scale of improvements many in the sector had hoped for, and further work will be needed to ensure that Europe’s AI framework both safeguards fundamental rights and supports innovation and competitiveness.

When: Wednesday @ 13:00

Where: ANTALL (4Q2)

Exchange of views with Kaja Kallas

On Tuesday, the European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs will welcome High Representative Kaja Kallas for an exchange of views. The discussion will focus on the European Union’s response to recent geopolitical developments, including ongoing security challenges, regional conflicts, and shifting global alliances.

When: Tuesday @ 15:00

Where: ANTALL (4Q2)

41st Carpathian Europe Forum

On Sunday 22 March, ECR MEPs will take part in the 41st Carptathian Europe Forum in Przemyśl, Poland. The Carpathian Europe Forum is part of a long-standing series of international meetings dedicated to strengthening dialogue and cooperation among the countries of the Carpathian region and their neighbours. Co-organised by the ECR Group, this initiative aims to promote balanced development, regional cooperation and discussions on key challenges facing Central and Eastern Europe, including security, economic growth and cross-border partnerships. Link to the event website here.

When: 22–24 March 2026

Where: Przemyśl, Poland