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Madrid – The President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, pointed out this Monday at the European leaders’ retreat in Brussels that the United States is Europe’s “most important ally” and that the Spanish government will work to continue strengthening the transatlantic relationship from European unity.
This was expressed by the Spanish leader at the European leaders’ conclave convened by the President of the European Council, António Costa, to address issues related to European security and defense.
This is the first meeting of the Twenty-Seven focused exclusively on defense, which was attended by the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, and the Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte, with whom the leaders held a working lunch.
Sánchez shared the Spanish position, based on a comprehensive vision of European security to tackle threats such as conflicts, terrorism, drug trafficking, cyberattacks, and disinformation, highlighting that the debate on capacities must consider that the increase in defense spending should contribute to reinforcing competitiveness, strengthening EU cohesion, developing technological excellence, and creating jobs.
Additionally, the President of the Government of Spain reiterated Europe’s unity around Ukraine and conveyed to the other leaders that Ukraine “must be at the center of any decision made about its future.” He also emphasized that no decision about security in Europe should be made without the European Union.
Moreover, he mentioned the need to address the importance of stability on the Southern Flank, including the Middle East and the Sahel. In this regard, he highlighted the importance of addressing other geographic areas in crisis, to prevent the spaces not occupied from being occupied by other actors. (February 4th)