Listen to a Business English Dialogue about European union
Shawn: Hi Addison, have you heard about the European Union?
Addison: Yes, I have. It’s a political and economic union of 27 European countries that work together on various issues, including trade, immigration, and security.
Shawn: That’s right. The European Union was formed to promote peace, stability, and economic prosperity among its member states.
Addison: How does the European Union function?
Shawn: The European Union operates through various institutions, including the European Commission, European Parliament, and European Council, which make decisions and implement policies on behalf of its member states.
Addison: Are there any benefits to being a member of the European Union?
Shawn: Yes, being a member of the European Union allows countries to access a single market with free movement of goods, services, capital, and people, which can boost trade and economic growth.
Addison: Are there any challenges facing the European Union?
Shawn: Yes, the European Union faces challenges such as managing diversity among member states, addressing economic disparities, and navigating political tensions within the union.
Addison: How does the European Union make decisions?
Shawn: Decisions within the European Union are made through a complex process involving negotiations, consultations, and consensus-building among member states and institutions.
Addison: Can you give an example of a policy area where the European Union has made significant progress?
Shawn: One example is the European Union’s efforts to address climate change through initiatives like the Paris Agreement and the European Green Deal, which aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development.
Addison: How does the European Union handle external relations with other countries?
Shawn: The European Union represents its member states in international affairs and negotiates trade agreements and partnerships with other countries and regions around the world.
Addison: It seems like the European Union plays a crucial role in promoting cooperation and integration among European countries.
Shawn: Absolutely, it’s a unique and influential organization that continues to shape the political, economic, and social landscape of Europe.