Our Government affairs manager, Zoltan Kesz, recently interviewed an MEP candidate from the Liberal’s Movement (Lithuania) to understand their perspective on the future of Europe, the strategies they recommend to address present challenges, and their opinions on crucial policy issues.

What are the biggest challenges the EU is currently facing?

“Consolidation and unity. Some states are going back too much into national interests, some populistic approaches to restore borders etc. This is a way back to the 90s. Not to the future.”

What is your vision of Europe in the coming decade?

“More market liberalization, open economics. Common budget. Common military. Unity. It is the only way forward for Europe to be strong and successful.”

How do you see the role of AI in the near future? What do you think of regulating it?

“AI is a fantastic tool and is our future if we are able to control it in a smart way that will not harm humanity. However, society should be careful with AI when it comes to cybersecurity and criminals using it against society.”

How does Europe benefit from free trade agreements?

“Less monopoly, more free trade, a business can grow untaxed, and bring products all over Europe, where any state member could benefit from it a lot.”

Many politicians talk about energy diversification. What is the ideal solution, in your opinion?

“The Ideal, in my opinion, is a common-sense combination between renewable energy and nuclear energy. That is an ideal picture at the end. As it is not possible to be completely on renewable energy in any near future, this has to be shared in the most environmentally friendly and most efficient way.”

Which one do you prefer and why? Innovation vs regulation?

“Prefer innovation. It is a drive mechanism for a brighter future and humanity’s progress.”

What are your constituents concerned about regarding the European Union?

“Geopolitical situation in EU and security of each state. I would say these are the most concerning subjects.”

Do you think it is wise to accept more countries into the Union?

“Not with current intake criteria. These have to be reviewed. The EU is already huge with lots of internal problems. New members shall be accepted with higher HDI and Economics – so it would also bring benefits to the whole EU not only gain from EU. There must be a balance in this.“

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