Prime Minister Luc Frieden of Luxembourg emphasized the importance of Europe sticking to its core values of liberty, democracy, and the rule of law in a speech to the European Parliament. He stressed the need to uphold the rules-based system and international law, pointing out the current pressures on this system. Frieden called for a clearer path for countries seeking EU accession, expressed support for peace in Ukraine, and highlighted the importance of strengthening Europe's defense capabilities. He proposed revisiting the concept of a European core group given international competition. Frieden concluded by underlining the importance of boosting the European economy, creating jobs, advancing the single market, and fostering European unity.