Energy Minister calls for greater EU intervention in fuel crisis

Maria da Graça Carvalho, Portugal's Minister of Energy, called on Monday in Brussels for the European Union (EU) to adopt a more proactive stance in the current fuel crisis. The minister argued that a coordinated community response is essential to address the situation, taking into account the diverse realities faced by EU member states.

During her speech, Carvalho referred to the need to learn from past crises, such as that of 2022, which resulted from the invasion of Ukraine. She emphasized the importance of a unified and effective approach from Europe, stating that coordination is vital to tackle the current challenges.

The minister did not limit her comments to the fuel crisis alone; she also addressed the European Commissioner's suggestion for energy savings in electricity and gas. According to Maria da Graça Carvalho, this recommendation does not reflect the reality of the current crisis, which is centered on fuel.

The discussion about specific measures, including the possibility of promoting telework, was also mentioned. Carvalho indicated that if such measures were to be implemented, they would need to be discussed in the Council of Ministers, involving the Prime Minister and the Minister of Labour.

The need for a response from the EU has been received in various European forums, with several member states expressing similar concerns. The Portuguese minister reiterated that a scattered approach would be insufficient to address the ongoing crisis, emphasizing unity as a paramount necessity.

With the fuel crisis affecting various sectors, EU intervention becomes increasingly pertinent. Pressure on Brussels to take concrete and coordinated actions will be a key topic in the coming days, as the debate over the European response intensifies.