Ursula von der Leyen in Iceland: EU Referendum, Security, and Trade Discussions

Press Conference Protocol

• 💬 A journalist questioned Ursula von der Leyen about the requirement for media to submit questions in advance of the press conference, asking if she was unable to answer unscripted questions.
• 💡 Ursula von der Leyen stated that the "last part of your question is unknown to me," regarding the advance submission of questions.

Iceland's EU Referendum

• 🗳️ The discussion centered on Iceland's upcoming referendum concerning the resumption of EU accession talks.
• 🔑 Icelandic officials emphasized that the decision is a sovereign one for the Icelandic people, and all three coalition parties are committed to respecting the outcome, whether it's a "yes" or a "no."
• 🇪🇺 Ursula von der Leyen noted that Iceland's application for EU membership is still valid, highlighting its integration into the single market through the EEA and shared values as assets for a closer partnership.

Strategic Security Partnership

• 🛡️ The conversation covered Iceland's significant role in European security and defense, especially in the context of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
• 🤝 New bilateral security agreements are being discussed between Iceland and the EU, similar to arrangements with non-EU members like Norway and Canada.
• 🚀 Iceland's strategic position was identified as one of its biggest assets, complementing its existing defense ties with the US and NATO, and broadening its scope of allies.

Iceland's Civil Defense Model

• 🚨 Ursula von der Leyen praised Iceland's impressive civil defense system, noting its "whole of society approach" and strong reliance on voluntary input.
• 🧠 The model includes a 360-degree view of risks, modern equipment for search and rescue, and protection of critical infrastructure, including exercises for data cable attacks.
• 💪 Iceland's "resilience mindset" and preparedness were highlighted as unique strengths, despite the country not having a military.

Future Trade Relations

• 📈 Discussions are beginning to review the existing trade agreement under the EEA, which hasn't been updated since Iceland joined.
• 🐟 A key area of focus for Iceland is gaining full market access for products like fish and seafood into the EU, as current tariffs and market barriers exist.