António Costa Advocates for EU Autonomy in Defense
During a ceremony in Brussels, António Costa, the elected president of the European Council, received the testimony from Charles Michel and emphasized that peace in Ukraine cannot be the peace of cemeteries. He called for an effort to make the European Union (EU) autonomous in defense and security matters.
"Peace cannot be the peace of cemeteries; it cannot be capitulation. Peace cannot reward the aggressor; peace in Ukraine must be just," Costa declared.
This statement was made in front of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. He stressed that although the war unfolds in Ukraine, universal principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter are at stake. Costa will begin his role on Sunday for a term of two and a half years.
A New Chapter for the EU
He highlighted the importance of writing a new chapter for the EU as a peace project, stating that the EU must become stronger, more efficient, resilient, and autonomous in security and defense, while also taking on a greater burden regarding military preparedness.
EU Enlargement and Geopolitical Urgency
Costa also discussed the geopolitical urgency of EU enlargement without imposing artificial deadlines or undue obstacles. He stated, "Enlargement is a powerful instrument of peace, security, and prosperity. Let's use it. Both the EU and candidate countries must work faster and more efficiently, without artificial deadlines, but also without undue obstacles."
He believes that enlargement will undoubtedly strengthen the EU. However, he emphasized that peace, security, and resilience are issues that transcend the community bloc. He stated, "We live in a multipolar world with seven continents and 192 countries. We must engage them, weaving a global network together."
In concluding his remarks, he asserted that the EU's external action must recognize the plurality of both the global south and north.
Source: Lusa
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