EMC 2025: States Reject EU's MFF Plans, Push for Regional Cooperation
The 98th session of the European Ministerial Conference (EMC) took place in Baden-Baden on September 24 and 25, 2025. The event was marked by discussions on crucial EU matters, including the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028 to 2034. The state of Hesse, represented by State Secretary Karin Müller, opposed the EU Commission's plans for the MFF, which they believed weakened regional cooperation.
The EMC, chaired by Baden-Württemberg, discussed competitiveness in research and innovation, cross-border cooperation with France, and relations with Switzerland. They welcomed the agreement between Switzerland and the EU on a package of contracts, acknowledging Switzerland's importance as a non-EU partner. The conference also stressed the need for joint EU funding of research and innovation to compete globally.
The EMC members welcomed the decision to continue Interreg programmes after 2027 and demanded regional involvement in shaping them. They discussed the ongoing MFF negotiations with State Minister Gunther Krichbaum and adopted a resolution reflecting the states' central demands. EU State Secretary Florian Haßler highlighted the importance of the MFF 2028-2034 for EU funding policy and the involvement of German states in its phases.
The EMC session in Baden-Baden underscored the importance of regional cooperation and involvement in EU funding decisions. The states' opposition to the EU Commission's MFF plans, along with their demands for regional input, signals a commitment to a more balanced and cooperative EU policy.