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Fact-check: Official EU Council website and multiple news sources, including Politico, DW, and Brussels Times, confirm an informal EU leaders' retreat on February 12, 2026, at Alden Biesen Castle in Limburg, Belgium, discussing single market deepening, economic dependencies, and competitiveness—aligning with the article's claims. The Atlantic Council piece directly references this real event in the context of EU Competitiveness Reform. No contradictions found in current reporting.

Can Europe finally deliver on competitiveness?

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European Union leaders held an informal summit in Limburg, Belgium, to discuss strategies for addressing the bloc's competitiveness shortcomings. The meeting signals ongoing efforts within the EU to strengthen its economic standing relative to global rivals. The Atlantic Council analysis examines whether this gathering offers meaningful progress toward structural reform.

Can Europe finally deliver on competitiveness?

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