Commission President Ursula von der Leyen participated in an informal EU Leaders retreat organized by European Council President António Costa, focusing on European defence.
The meeting provided an opportunity for EU Leaders to discuss the future of EU defence, including capabilities, financing, and strategic partnerships.
Leaders agreed on the need to enhance the EUs own defence capabilities. During the closing press conference with President Costa and Prime Minister Donald Tusk, President von der Leyen underscored her commitment to funding EU defence: “We need more public funding and will use the full flexibility of the Stability and Growth Pact for increased defence spending. We are also working with the EIB on lending practices and engaging with the private banking sector,” she said.
She emphasized the potential of joint procurement for economies of scale and interoperability.
Leaders also discussed the link between competitiveness and defence and the benefits of defence investments for Europes competitiveness.
President von der Leyen mentioned the EUs need to simplify legislation, create jobs through defence investments, and foster innovation, highlighting cooperation with Ukraine: “The Ukrainian defence industry, with its rapid advancements, provides valuable lessons for us,” she said.
The Commission plans to present its White Paper on the Future of European Defence in March, setting the stage for a formal discussion at the European Council meeting in June.
Strategic partnerships around the world
The EU is committed to strengthening ties with strategic partners. Leaders welcomed NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Regarding EU-US relations, President von der Leyen emphasized a robust and constructive dialogue, ready to address challenges.
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Remarks by President von der Leyen at the closing press conference