Speaking after the meeting, Merkel observed: "We noted on both sides a strong determination to move Europe forward." She added that it was also clear that one presidency will not be able to resolve all the problems that need to be addressed.
Climate change and energy security
Energy policy and climate change played an important part in the talks. "We will do everything we can to give Europe an ambitious agenda on these issues," Merkel said.
She alluded to the opportunity provided by Germany’s double presidency to take a coordinated European position on climate change to the G8 summit.
With regard to the Russian decision to shut off the flow of oil through the Druzhba pipeline that supplies a number of EU countries, Merkel criticized the fact that no consultations took place before this was done.
She added: "This event shows how important energy security is. It was right to place this issue on the agenda of the EU Presidency. Unless we take the initiative in bringing about more competition in the energy sector, more energy efficiency, more use of renewables, diversification, and independence, we will not be able to achieve energy security."
Constitution a difficult issue
Merkel reaffirmed her desire to draw up a road map for the constitution by the end of her presidency. "This is going to be a difficult issue to get through. We’re going to need the cooperation of all the member states," she said.
Barroso was pleased that Germany sees the constitution as a key objective for the coming six months. "In a Europe with twenty-seven member states we need instruments other than the ones we have had in the past. We need to adapt our institutions to the new circumstances," he said.
Reducing bureaucracy
The German government will also be working to promote better legislation in the European Union. "The Commission and the Council Presidency will jointly consider how bureaucratic costs can be reduced, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises," Merkel said. In her view this will be an important factor in helping to promote growth in Europe.
She indicated that the Commission will submit proposals on this matter for discussion at the spring summit in March and said she hoped the proposals in question will be adopted.
Winning over the people
Barroso urged that an effort be made to bring the European Union closer to the people: "Enlargement has been a success for Germany. It has resulted in new jobs being created."
He addressed his audience in German, saying: "The presidency motto is ‘Europe – succeeding together’. This is apt, since Europe is a project for us all. Europe helps to promote your freedom, your security, and your prosperity. We want to continue to improve on the situation over the course of the next six months. I urge you to take an active part in helping us do this!"
Traditionally, at the beginning of each EU Presidency the government in question meets with the members of the European Commission to agree on the way it will be conducted.
The members of the German cabinet and the Commission met in sixteen different work groups to discuss the various items of the presidency work programme.
The members of the German cabinet and the Commission met in sixteen different work groups to discuss the various items of the presidency work programme.
