Europe’s commitment to the Western Balkans, Ukraine, Moldova and other candidate countries “will always be stronger” than Russian efforts to “prevent them having a European future”, European Commission President von der Leyen said today at the European Parliament Plenary, presenting the new College of Commissioners and its programme.
Among the Commissioners, Von der Leyen presented the new EU Commissioner for Enlargement, saying that “Marta Kos – with her vast experience – is the right person for this job.” She added that “the vision of a continent united by democracy, the rule of law and respect of fundamental freedoms will always drive our work”.
“The dream of Europe extends to the Western Balkans, to Ukraine, to Moldova and beyond. We have seen the bravery of the people of Ukraine in pursuing their European journey. We have seen the resilience of the people of Moldova to stick to their European future /…/ At the same time, we have seen how Russia will stop at nothing to prevent them having a European future,” the President of the European Commission said.
She also presented the first European Commissioner for Defence Andrius Kubilius, saying that “war is raging on Europe’s borders. And we must be ready for what lies ahead – working hand-in-hand with NATO”.
“Just one figure. Russia is spending up to 9% of its GDP on defence. Europe is spending on average 1.9%. There is something wrong in this equation. Our defence spending must increase,” concluded Von der Leyen.
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