“The military escalation in the Middle East is causing global instability, and its negative consequences are already being felt in Europe. We will therefore discuss the situation in Iran and the region, and our response to its geopolitical and economic fall-out, including as regards energy prices and energy security”. European Council President Antonio Costa wrote this in his invitation letter to the 27 EU heads of state or government ahead of the 19 March summit in Brussels. “Together, we must identify the instruments we need to mobilise to ensure a timely, coordinated and effective response that protects our citizens and our companies, while at the same time working towards de-escalation and stability in the region”. President Costa added: “As we work together to deal with this crisis, we should also keep the focus on our strategic competitiveness agenda, which becomes all the more pressing”. The president intends to translate the work of the February “discussions” in Alden Biesen with Mr Draghi and Mr Letta into a new agenda called “One Europe, One Market”, consisting of “concrete measures and ambitious deadlines. The overall purpose of this agenda is to strengthen European competitiveness, enhance our strategic autonomy and reinforce the foundations of our social model”.