Robert Habeck speaks out in favor of EU Defense Commissioner | EUROtoday

As of 6:59 p.m | Reading time: 2 minutes

BEconomics Minister Robert Habeck (Greens) helps the concept of ​​an EU protection commissioner. He thinks such a perform for coordinating processes is true, mentioned the Vice Chancellor on Wednesday in Berlin. However, he identified that the perform alone doesn’t create European coverage: in any case, there’s additionally an EU industrial commissioner, however coverage on this space continues to be nationwide in nature.

“We only see progress if we get concrete things rolling,” mentioned Habeck concerning the strongly nationwide protection coverage in Europe. “So agree on concrete cooperation in procurement, agree on production, promote the same norms, the same standards for certain types of frigates to tanks and then achieve the largest possible merger.”

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EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen supported the concept of ​​naming a protection commissioner on the Munich Security Conference in February. In addition to CDU politicians, representatives of different events had additionally spoken out in favor of it. The background is the safety coverage state of affairs in Europe because the starting of the Russian battle of aggression towards Ukraine.

“Don’t always spend the money effectively”

Habeck made the feedback after a gathering with representatives of the German protection business, which additionally included the Chancellery and the Ministries of Defense and Finance in addition to the Foreign Office. The background is threatening. “If we look at Russia, we have to see that we are also increasing the production of goods that increase the country's security capability in Germany and Europe.” It was about what safety the business wanted with a purpose to enhance manufacturing . After all, armaments usually are not regular shopper items; acceptance should be secured prematurely.

The quantity that Europe spends on protection will not be small, mentioned Habeck. “But we don’t always spend the money effectively.” A standard procurement market must be established. The minister expressly praised the safety and protection business in Germany. “It is strong in industrial setup, it is strong in infrastructure, it is strong in research. She can really do something.”

Habeck mentioned additional conferences ought to comply with, however didn’t wish to go into element citing the sensitivity of the subject. Among different issues, questions of financing and necessities for dual-use items that can be utilized for each navy and civilian functions should be clarified.