Sources: European Commission

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is preparing to deliver the European Union’s annual State of the Union address on Sept. 16. A preparatory meeting of the European Commission on Sept. 4 brought climate, industrial artificial intelligence and broader strategic priorities into focus.

Von der Leyen chaired the College of Commissioners seminar in Tervuren, Belgium. The meeting was held specifically to prepare the State of the Union speech. The European Commission confirmed Johan Rockström, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, and Jim Hagemann Snabe, the Commission’s special envoy for industrial AI, as special guests.

The choice of guests highlights two major issues facing the EU: climate risks and technological competitiveness. It does not, however, establish what measures von der Leyen will announce in her speech.

Climate Risks Raise Pressure On Brussels

The climate discussion comes after an intense summer of heat and wildfires across Europe. The European Environment Agency has identified climate risks to health, infrastructure, food systems, ecosystems and energy as growing challenges for the continent.

The Commission has also expanded preparations for wildfires. Its 2026 summer operation included hundreds of firefighters from EU countries and additional firefighting aircraft and helicopters.

These events have increased attention on climate adaptation and disaster preparedness. They also create pressure to balance longer-term climate goals with immediate economic and security priorities.

AI And Industrial Competitiveness Move Up The Agenda

Industrial AI is another major issue ahead of the speech. Snabe’s participation reflects the EU’s focus on artificial intelligence, industrial capacity and technological competitiveness. The Commission is seeking to strengthen Europe’s position in strategic technologies while implementing its AI regulatory framework.

The wider policy debate also includes energy costs, economic security, defense and Europe’s industrial base. These issues increasingly overlap with climate policy because energy prices and industrial investment affect the pace and cost of Europe’s transition.