Ladies and Gentlemen,

Thank you for being here. We begin an important dialogue on the EU defence industry and simplification.

Peace in Europe is no longer a given. We face known threats.

The President held a Strategic Dialogue with companies on the European defence industrys role in our security.

We must learn from Ukraines defence industry, which grew from 1 billion euro to 35 billion euro during the war.

We must learn these lessons to prevent war.

We face significant gaps in our defence capabilities due to underinvestment. The US is withdrawing, so we must take more responsibility for our own defence.

The European Commission and Council are addressing this challenge with the White Paper and Readiness 2030 plan. Now we focus on implementing these proposals.

We need to analyze defence needs, ensure industrial supply, and create the right financial conditions with SAFE loans.

We are increasing defence spending and working with NATO and Member States to close capability gaps.

We support the industry with demand clarity and help with joint contracts and innovation.

Today we focus on the Defence Omnibus simplification proposal, to be submitted soon. The current regulatory environment is not ready for our goals.

It is essential to facilitate investments and procurements through a simpler framework, fit for 2030. The industrial base must be able to scale production.

We have consulted widely with Member States and industry. Your feedback is crucial.

Today we discuss possible simplifications in EU defence legislation. Member States need to invest in defence capabilities and procure systems.

Fluidity of intra-EU transfers is essential for collaboration and supply security.

We must maintain the balance between rules and defence readiness.

Your feedback today is very important.

I look forward to the discussion and appreciate your input.