"Hearing" attracted a record attendance of 250 people

On 24 September my first public hearing on the impact of EU sanctions against Russia on European companies was held. The attendance witnessed of the fact that it was a very up-to-date topic with interesting speakers - a record 250 people came to exchange views with representatives of European and Czech business and the European Commission.

Russia is currently one of the most important EU trading partners. Existing sanctions have thus affected a wide range of sectors (from agriculture to cars). Due to the current escalation of trade relations the entrepreneurs have realized that classical trade flows can no longer be taken for granted. Their message to the European Commission was clear: it is necessary to review the existing EU trade policy and remove obstacles for easier access to other markets outside Europe. I take it to heart and at the first opportunity I will ask the Swedish Trade Commissioner nominee this question.