Big question at new European club's first summit: What is it for?

44 leaders from European countries gathered on Thursday (6 October) to witness the inaugural summit for the European Political Community (EPC). This is a great show of solidarity for a continent in multiple crises. However, it is not clear what the forum will accomplish.

The EPC is a creation of French President Emmanuel Macron. It brings together 27 members states of the European Union with 17 other countries.

A diplomat from the EU stated that the gathering of leaders in Prague would send a strong signal to Russian President Vladimir Putin about opposition to the war in Ukraine following his February invasion.

Diplomats claim that there is no such Europe-wide grouping. This is an ideal time to create one, as Europe grapples with the consequences of war, including the threat of peace and security, and the economic and energy crises.

Josep Borrell, EU foreign policy chief, stated that the gathering was only going to be "an initial exchange" and that there were still questions about the forum’s ultimate goal.

Borrell stated in a blog that clarity is still needed regarding the EPC's core reasoning, final membership, relationship with the EU, how the forum should be managed, and whether or not it should have its own budget.

Many have dismissed the EPC as a mere talking shop. It will be hard to manage, not only because it is large but also because of the diversity of its members (from Armenia and Azerbaijan, to Greece, and Turkey).

However, Mujtaba Rahman (Managing Director for Europe at Eurasia Group) said that it could be a way for the EU's strategic goals to move forward on energy supply, migration and security.

He stated that Liz Truss, British Prime Minister, had decided to attend the summit. This could help to reestablish ties between London and Brussels that were damaged by post-Brexit disputes over Northern Ireland.

On Friday, the meeting at Prague Castle, a vast complex that dates back more than 1,000 years, will be followed by a meeting with EU leaders.

This summit will be dominated by How to Cap Gas Prices To Limit soaring Energy Costs.

Diplomats claimed that tensions would likely arise from Germany's announcement of an EU-wide support package worth €200 billion ($197.50bn) for households and businesses. This support package is not available to other member countries.

($1 = €1.0127)

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