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n 1. 1. 6. Priorities of the European UnionThe EU sets a number of priorities that shape the political and policy agendawithin a certain period. The current period ends in 2029. The defined prioritiesserve to address the main challenges faced by the EU and EU nationals. Thepriorities derive from a dialogue between EU leaders, national ministers, EUinstitutions and the political groups elected to the European Parliament. In their 2024%u20132029 strategic agenda, EU leaders have identified three keypriority areas to steer the efforts of EU institutions. n A free and democratic Europe %u25aa Upholding European values within the EU. Living up to EU values ona global level n A strong and secure Europe%u25aa Ensuring coherent and influential external action%u25aa Strengthening EU security and defence, and protecting EU citizens%u25aa Preparing for a bigger and stronger union%u25aa Pursuing a comprehensive approach to migration and bordermanagement n A prosperous and competitive Europe%u25aa Bolstering the EU%u2019s competitiveness%u25aa Making a success of the green and digital transitions%u25aa Promoting an innovation- and business-friendly environment%u25aa Advancing togetherIn addition, the European Commission also determines political priorities for its5-year mandate. The current priorities (2024%u20132029) are derived from the EUstrategic agenda and recognise seven priorities: a new plan for Europe%u2019ssustainable prosperity and competitiveness (making business easier to fostereconomic growth, supporting EU%u2019s competitive industries and creating highquality jobs, developing a circular and resilient economy that puts research andinnovation at its heart and accelerates investment, tackling the skills and labourgaps, and leading the way in digital technology innovation); a new era forEuropean defence and security (ensuring that European citizens are safer andmore secure by building a European Defence Union, addressing all threatsonline and offline and being prepared to react to crises, strengthening our191.1 Dynamic European Integration Environment