Benelux Leaders Reaffirm Role as Europe’s “Locomotive of Integration” at Luxembourg Summit

At Bourglinster Castle on Wednesday, the leaders of the Benelux Union renewed their commitment to deepening cooperation and maintaining their long-standing role as a driver of European integration.

Luxembourg Prime Minister Luc Frieden, who currently chairs the Council of Ministers of the Benelux Union, hosted Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever and Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof. Opening the meeting, Frieden reminded his counterparts that the Benelux was born out of turbulent times, a reminder he linked to today’s geopolitical and economic uncertainties.

The discussions placed a strong emphasis on reinforcing economic ties and strengthening competitiveness. “The Benelux countries have always been the locomotive of integration in Europe, and they must remain so,” De Wever said, praising the spirit of Schengen that continues to inspire cooperation between the three nations.

For Schoof, the Benelux acts as “a testing ground for European cooperation, a field of innovation” — a model that he believes should inspire broader EU policies. All three leaders highlighted current priorities, including military spending, energy cooperation, and sustained support for Ukraine through the PURL aid programme. “Ukraine is fighting for our freedoms, we must stand by it,” stressed Frieden.

The conflict in Gaza also featured prominently in the talks. Frieden described the situation as “terrible,” while Schoof called it “catastrophic.” Together, they reiterated their support for an immediate ceasefire and ongoing international diplomatic efforts.

Competitiveness was another key theme. Frieden argued that “free trade remains essential,” pointing to green energy projects that could be developed jointly. He also defended international trade agreements, such as the controversial EU-Mercosur pact, as necessary tools to secure growth and jobs.

This summit comes in the wake of ongoing efforts to strengthen ties not only within Benelux but also with neighbouring regions such as Rhineland-Palatinate in Germany and Hauts-de-France in France, both of which were represented at Wednesday’s discussions.
By presenting a united front on global challenges while focusing on regional cooperation, the Benelux leaders reaffirmed their ambition to remain Europe’s small but powerful engine of integration.

Read More : Meeting in Luxembourg: The Benelux is positioning itself as a driver of integration - The essentials
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