Europe must take responsibility for its defence, Metsola says

Sarhan Basem
Credit: Roberta Metsola

Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – European Parliament President Roberta Metsola stressed, “Europe must be responsible for its own security” and emphasised the need for “more action, more financing, and more cooperation” to fulfil expectations for greater defence.

At an informal European Council summit on defence in Brussels, the European Parliament President emphasised that improving security is not an act of goodwill but a need, adding that any policy must respect the constitutional frameworks of European Union Member States.

It is about research and development—about investing in technologies like AI to strengthen cyber resilience and improve our surveillance and situational awareness,

she also said. 

She further claimed that security investment is not only around protection but also about growing European competitiveness, producing jobs, and promoting economic growth.

Speaking to EU leaders, Metsola stressed the need to tackle market fragmentation within the bloc.

Different rules, standards, and systems are putting up barriers and risk holding us back,”

she cautioned, insisting on better coordination among member nations.

Europe must be responsible for its own security. No one else will do this for us,

she added. 

How does Metsola advocate for stronger European defence?

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has been a vocal proponent of stronger European defence efforts, especially in the creation of a European Defence Union parallel to NATO

Last year, Metsola pushed for a strong European Defence Union, commenting that the EU countries should learn to depend more on their own strengths to be ready against potential threats. She thinks that a collective defence policy will make Europe stronger and reinforce the NATO system instead of substituting it.

In her speeches, Metsola urged leaders of the EU to “step up” in asserting Europe’s place in the global arena. She also re-emphasized the importance of unity among the member states of the EU in addressing security challenges.

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Brussels Morning is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. BM publishes unique and independent coverage on international and European affairs. With a Europe-wide perspective, BM covers policies and politics of the EU, significant Member State developments, and looks at the international agenda with a European perspective.
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Sarhan Basem is Brussels Morning's Senior Correspondent to the European Parliament. With a Bachelor's degree in English Literature, Sarhan brings a unique blend of linguistic finesse and analytical prowess to his reporting. Specializing in foreign affairs, human rights, civil liberties, and security issues, he delves deep into the intricacies of global politics to provide insightful commentary and in-depth coverage. Beyond the world of journalism, Sarhan is an avid traveler, exploring new cultures and cuisines, and enjoys unwinding with a good book or indulging in outdoor adventures whenever possible.
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