The European People’s Party (EPP) warmly welcomes the publication of the European Commission’s reflection paper on the future of European defence, as well as the legislative proposals establishing the European Defence Fund. On this occasion, EPP President Joseph Daul made the following statement: “The European Union is a haven of stability faced by an arc of instability. As a result, today we live in a world where security is one of the main concerns of Europeans. Our security and safety are no longer a given and cannot be taken for granted. We face new threats and sweeping geopolitical changes we can neither disregard nor address with solely the existing tools. Europeans demand action. They want a safer and more secure Europe. And it is our job to deliver an updated security and defence agenda that entails solidarity and closer cooperation among EU countries. The time has come for more Union in our European defence. Different perceptions of the threats and security interests of the Member States have prevented for far too long a common strategic approach to defence. It is now time to move on and put in place a strong European defence and security policy. We do not want to make war, but we need to maintain the peace the EU has enjoyed for the past 70 years and to ensure our citizens feel safe and protected at home. The EPP has been calling for years for a bold step towards a common EU defence and security policy. That’s why we stand ready to participate in this reflection process initiated today by the European Commission and why we will support the creation of a European Defence Fund. The development of joint research efforts, new joint capabilities among EU countries and the creation of a European Defence Fund will put Europe on the right path towards strengthening its position both at home and abroad. It will also reinforce our cooperation with NATO and avoid unnecessary duplication. A united and committed Europe in defence is the right step towards securing our common European future. I thank Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and Vice-President Jyrki Katainen for leading the efforts to put in place a strong European defence and security policy.”