Berlin and Paris plan to strengthen European defense capabilities

Following changes in the European security situation, France and Germany plan to strengthen European defense capabilities, a joint council said after a meeting near Berlin.

“The European Union must become a real geopolitical actor and guarantor of security, capable of responding to current security challenges and strengthening the international order,” the French-German Defense and Security Council said on Tuesday after its meeting at Meseberg Palace, north of Berlin.

They released a document calling for better and faster defense production in Europe. “By strengthening the technological and industrial base of European defense, we will enhance our overall defense preparedness and provide capabilities that meet our needs and requirements in the face of increasing threats and security challenges,” the council said.

A stronger and more capable European defense will make a positive contribution to global and transatlantic security, the two states said.

They also noted “the central importance of nuclear deterrence for the security of Europe and NATO, as well as the deterrent role of the independent French strategic nuclear weapons and their essential contribution to the security of the Alliance as a whole.”

They argue for a mix of nuclear, conventional and missile defense capabilities, supplemented with space and cyber capabilities.

They also reaffirmed their intention to “establish comprehensive and inclusive long-term cooperation with long-range weapons partners.”