According to Vseviov, the next long-term budget must reflect Europe’s changed security environment and the numerous challenges facing the Union. “Now is not the time to scale back Europe’s ambitions. Europe must be strong, secure and competitive, and it must continue supporting Ukraine, which also requires sufficient resources. 1.1% of Europe’s national wealth is not a great deal when it comes to investing more in defence and internal security, competitiveness and critical connections, while continuing to support Ukraine,” he said.
At the meeting, the Secretary General stressed that the next budget must take greater account of the heavier security and economic burden borne by countries on the EU’s eastern border. “Eastern border countries invest significantly more in their own defence and, in doing so, defend Europe as a whole. This greater responsibility must also be reflected in the EU’s common budget.”
Vseviov also highlighted the importance of funding Rail Baltic and other critical cross-border connections. “During the previous EU budget period, the Baltic states disconnected from the Russian energy system and integrated with the rest of Europe in this area. Now it is time to do the same with transport. Rail Baltic connects the Baltic States with the rest of Europe, but its importance extends far beyond the economy. Good transport links are also essential for ensuring military mobility and security in Europe,” he said.
According to Vseviov, the European Union’s next budget must also ensure strong and long-term support for Ukraine, as supporting Ukraine and putting pressure on Russia to end the war are directly linked to the security of Europe as a whole.
Photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjD3KPV
