Robles advocates for European unity and the importance of strategic foresight during the meeting of EU defence ministers

The High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, and the Minister for Defence, Margarita Robles, at the Foreign Affairs Council

During a working session in which the key aspects that will inform the bloc's future Security Strategy were examined in depth, Robles stressed the importance of having "an updated, broad and innovative analysis of shared threats from a 360º perspective".

"This is essential for anticipating challenges and strengthening the security of our citizens," said the minister, who was accompanied by the Secretary General for Defence Policy, Admiral Juan Francisco Martínez Núñez.

Later, over a working lunch, the ministers discussed the latest developments in European support for Ukraine, with a particular focus on EU-Ukraine industrial cooperation. The session was attended by Ukrainian Defence Minister Mikhail Fedorov via videoconference, and NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska. Once again, Robles reaffirmed Spain's commitment to Ukraine, stressing that "European unity remains key to sustaining effective and coordinated support in the military, industrial and humanitarian spheres".

During the meeting, the ministers also discussed the difficult situation in Lebanon, while expressing their support for the blue helmet UN peacekeepers in the area, where Spain has some 700 soldiers deployed.

Robles highlighted the important work carried out by the military in promoting security in the country, where "the situation is worrying due to the ongoing instability, not to mention the immediate future, considering the need for a debate on what the future holds for this region once UNIFILS's mandate ends.

Ukraine, Lebanon and the Middle East are the main focus of conflict and media attention, "but we cannot forget other places like the Sahel and the Indian Ocean, where the work of our armed forces in the fight against piracy is vital".

The minister reaffirmed the Spanish Navy's commitment to economic and energy stability and global security, and our country's commitment to its international allies. In this regard, attendees reiterated their recognition of the 'ATALANTA' anti-piracy mission in the Indian Ocean, in which Spain plays an active role.

Coordination and strategic vision

The current crisis in the Middle East was another key topic of the meeting. Robles argued that because of its direct effects on European security, "it is imperative to act responsibly, in a coordinated manner, and with strategic vision, in accordance with international law".

The ministers also discussed the progress made in implementing the defence preparedness agenda, including steps towards a single defence market and the review of the defence procurement directive. In this respect, Robles stressed that "strengthening the industrial base and moving towards greater strategic autonomy are essential to guarantee the EU's capacity to respond to any scenario".

In this context, Micael Johansson, President of the European Association of Aerospace, Security and Defence Industries, outlined the industry's efforts to increase the production of air defence systems.

Non official translation