The European Economy

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H.E Herman Van Rompuy

17 November 2014

3.30pm - 5.00pm

SMU Mochtar Riady Auditorium

Singapore

Looking ahead five years from the extensive losses incurred during the global financial crisis, the European economy found itself grappling with high youth unemployment and a decline in business confidence. At the heart of the European Council's priorities was the essential task of rejuvenating the European economy. Simultaneously, the G20 took proactive measures aimed at addressing the challenge of global growth, driven by a resolute commitment to effective solutions.

H.E. Herman Van Rompuy, who served as the inaugural full-time President of the European Council, played a pivotal role in guiding discussions on political strategies and bailout programmes during this tumultuous period. He discussed Europe's strategies for navigating the complexities of the financial landscape, the profound impact that the European economy exerted on Asia, and critical moments that unfolded during his tenure as President. He emphasised the need for concrete decision-making when solving global issues.

Europe needs to focus on growth and jobs, address its people's concerns, overcome immigration challenges and manage populist rhetoric.
The European Council's dedication to reviving the economy highlights its unwavering commitment to post-crisis challenges.
The G20's proactive actions address global growth, showing collective determination to navigate economic uncertainties ambitiously.

Speaker

H.E. Herman Van Rompuy

President of the European Council

On the road to recovery

When you look back at these five years, there were defining moments or moments where we thought "It's going the wrong way". But we've been able to find the right way and have moments where we said "We really made a breakthrough".

When you look back at these five years, there were defining moments or moments where we thought "It's going the wrong way". But we've been able to find the right way and have moments where we said "We really made a breakthrough".

H.E Herman Van Rompuy
President of the European Council

The G20 meeting is not only important for the meeting itself but for the bilateral meetings that happened. I think it is the first time in human history that, on a regular basis, leaders all over the globe meet each other and try to find a common stance.