Mitsotakis: If we don’t upgrade the EU’s defense capabilities we are sending the wrong message

During his intervention at the European Council, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis highlighted the need to upgrade the European Union’s defense capabilities. Specifically, during discussions on European defense at the Summit, as reported by the Athens News Agency, the Prime Minister underscored that Europe is at a critical juncture where it must do more in this area. He emphasized the importance of developing and financing the European defense industry independently, without depending on third parties. “Anything less,” he stressed, “sends the wrong message.”

Earlier, in statements made before the start of the EU Summit proceedings, the Prime Minister referred to the agreement among the three ‘political families’ – the EPP, the European Socialists, and the European Liberals – to propose Ursula von der Leyen for President of the European Commission, Antonio Costa for President of the European Council, and Kaja Kallas for the position of High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs.

“I hope that these choices will be accepted by the European Council, followed by a vote in the European Parliament. It is important that the process concludes by July to avoid delays in the next European cycle,” Mr. Mitsotakis emphasized.

“Τhe next significant issue that will concern us is the strategic agenda for the next five years, regarding the critical policy issues that should engage the EU. I am pleased that all major Greek priorities are reflected in this text. There is a strong emphasis on migration issues and the protection of external borders, the need for increased defense cooperation possibly financed through the European budget, matters related to competitiveness, and support for our primary sector, our farmers, livestock breeders, and fishermen. This document will serve as a guide for the European Commission for the next five years,” he emphasized.

Mr. Mitsotakis also noted: “We will further discuss the topics of common defense cooperation, where I will have the opportunity to reintroduce the joint proposal I have formulated with the Polish Prime Minister for creating a European missile shield, a landmark project that could signify a new step in European defense cooperation at a time when we all recognize that Europe must do more to strengthen its common defense.”

He stressed that these discussions are relevant to the policies that European citizens are interested in, such as migration, enhanced defense cooperation, and significant priorities in the upcoming European cycle.

Donald Tusk, the Prime Minister of Poland, remarked on the proposal for a missile defense shield during his participation in the Summit. He stated, “All our partners in the EU understand that our shared responsibility for our security is something we need today. That’s why I decided to propose the initiative for a missile defense shield together with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.”

Responding to a question about the consultations in recent days regarding a common European leadership line-up, where Giorgia Meloni did not participate, he noted, “No one respects Italy and Giorgia Meloni more than I do.” At the same time, he explained that there was a “misunderstanding” regarding the exclusion of leaders, including the Italian Prime Minister.

“Sometimes in specific political platforms, we need to facilitate the process,” said the Polish Prime Minister. “We have completed the processes on this political platform, but this is only to facilitate the process. The decision lies with Mrs. Meloni and the other leaders,” he emphasized.

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