Hoekstra finds it logical to set a new EU climate goal now

Tense geopolitics, threats to collective security, and slow growth in some member states. Some may wonder why we are doing this when there is already so much going on. But we are doing it because it makes sense, for our economy, security, and for geopolitical reasons, to continue with climate policy,” said Hoekstra during a press conference on the climate goal.

Hoekstra points out the importance of protecting citizens from climate change and extreme weather. Clear goals are also needed to “give companies the predictability they need.” It is also about “becoming more independent and resilient. The EU still pays billions of euros annually for the import of oil and gas.”

Many details have yet to be worked out. This will take about “a year to a year and a half,” said Hoekstra.

“This is really a robust proposal in my view, which I expect will have broad support both among the member states and in the European Parliament,” said Hoekstra. Member states and parliamentarians are dissatisfied, both with the timing of the commission’s proposal and its feasibility.

Other member states and parliamentarians are critical of too many loopholes for businesses. According to Hoekstra, the EU has been “too one-dimensional, only talking about climate. If you want to do this well, you will have to do it together with our business community.”

(July 2, 2025)