Keir Starmer Calls for Stronger European Defense at Munich Security Conference

The British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, emphasized the importance of strengthening the defense capabilities and military strength in Europe. He said that in the current global situation, military strength had become the foundation for the balance of power, and therefore, it was now more important than ever for Europe to strengthen its defense capabilities. The Prime Minister made these comments at the 62nd Munich Security Conference.

This global security conference is being attended by the heads of more than 60 countries and governments, the highest leaders from nearly 50 different international organizations, and representatives from at least 115 countries.

Starmer was very clear in stating that Europe needs to be able to defend against potential threats, and if necessary, be willing to fight for what it believes in order to protect its people, values, and way of life. The British Prime Minister also advocated for increased economic and defense cooperation with the European Union. He indicated that Britain should identify areas where it can move closer to the EU's single market. Starmer stated that joint efforts are necessary to bring about a "generational change" in defense industrial cooperation.

Regarding relations six years after Brexit, he stated that now is the time to refocus on closer economic coordination and that deeper economic integration is in the interests of all parties. Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also emphasized the need for closer cooperation between Europe and Britain. She said that both sides must come closer to protect security, the economy, and democratic values. According to her, even years after Brexit, the futures of Europe and Britain remain intertwined.