Enforcing European defense is considered a pressing and urgent necessity, according to Philip VI.
Revised Article:
King Felipe VI's speech at the Jacques Delors College of Europe's closing ceremony highlights the urgent need for Europe to strengthen its defense and security capabilities. He warns that the growing instability worldwide has made this a "real and pressing necessity" that Europe needs to address sooner rather than later.
Framing security as the driving force behind EU debates, Felipe VI calls for action, reminding the high-ranking officials in attendance that Europe justifies its existence by responding effectively to pressing needs. The monarch stresses the importance of working together, without compromising other essential policies, to bolster European security, particularly within NATO.
Emphasizing the importance of the transatlantic link, Felipe VI encourages students to promote transatlantic dialogue in their careers. He argues that this strategic relationship is not just a political decision but a way of understanding Europe's place in the world.
The king highlights the European project's ability to overcome existential crises in the past and believes it can do so again by "responding with more Europe." He emphasizes reason and ethical thought as the values that will guide Europe in the face of current challenges.
Felipe VI's push for a stronger Europe is backed by his recent actions, including visits to NATO multinational battle groups and collaborating with defense industries across Europe. His aim is to enhance European cooperation within NATO frameworks, deepen integration among European defense industries, and contribute to lasting peace and stability in Europe.
Europe's New Focus: Defense and Security
King Felipe VI reiterates that Europe has always taken necessary actions in times of turmoil to respond to pressing needs. Citing historical examples such as the bipolarization of the world, the arms race, and the emergence of digital networks and artificial intelligence, he emphasizes that the next step for the European project is defense and security.
According to the king, this focus is closely linked to the idea of Europe itself, born out of peace after two world wars, with the aspiration of preventing war from returning to European soil. Felipe VI encourages European policy-makers to channel this ethos in their decision-making, ensuring that peace remains at the heart of European politics.
A United Europe in a Changing World
Against the backdrop of increasingly fragile human rights, a questioning United Nations Charter, and the disregard for international law, Felipe VI calls for more united European action. He cites recent conflicts in the Middle East and the war of aggression and invasion in Ukraine as evidence of the growing threat to international law.
In response, Felipe VI advocates for a stronger Europe, noting that basic principles such as respect for the sovereign independence and territorial integrity of states are being degraded. He warns that the rules of the game are threatened, the benefits of diplomacy and honest cooperation are at risk, and the very way of life is at stake.
Despite these challenges, the king expressed confidence in Europe's ability to overcome the crises, stating, "Let no one underestimate our ability, as Europeans, to face the challenges that come our way." He concludes by underscoring that a united, strong, and cohesive Europe is more vital than ever in the 21st century.
- King Felipe VI's speech at the Jacques Delors College of Europe underscores the need for Europe to focus on defense and security, as he believes this is the next step for the European project, given the growing threats and wars around the world.
- Amidst the fragile human rights situation, the questioning of the United Nations Charter, and the disregard for international law, King Felipe VI advocates for a stronger and more united Europe to protect basic principles like respect for sovereign independence and territorial integrity, and to preserve the benefits of diplomacy and cooperation in a changing world.
