Fri Sep 20 09:03:34 UTC 2024: ## European Parliament Opens Session with Condolences and Calls for Action

**Strasbourg, France** – The European Parliament opened its plenary session on September 16th with President Metsola addressing the devastating impact of recent extreme weather events in central and eastern Europe and highlighting the two-year anniversary of the murder of Jina Mahsa Amini in Iran.

Metsola expressed her condolences for the victims of the floods in Poland, Hungary, Austria, Romania, Czechia, Slovakia and Germany, as well as the victims of the wildfires in Portugal. She reiterated the EU’s commitment to providing aid and support to those affected.

“The EU must play its part and continue to do whatever is necessary to help,” she stated.

In recognition of the two-year anniversary of Amini’s death, Metsola affirmed the Parliament’s solidarity with those fighting for equality, dignity, and freedom in Iran.

“Parliament proudly stands with the brave, defiant women and men who continue to fight for equality, dignity and freedom,” Metsola declared. “Parliament will continue to stand with those who risk their lives even from prison to keep the movement alive.”

The session also included a moment of silence in memory of Croatian MEP Predrag Fred Matić, who passed away on August 23rd. Metsola described him as a “champion of social justice, human rights and equality,” emphasizing his impact on policy and lives.

“As a war hero and a former minister, he had a strong sense of duty, and an unwavering commitment to build a better Europe,” Metsola added.

The plenary session’s agenda includes key debates on the devastating floods, as well as a number of other important issues.

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