Paris:France and Germany should deepen their defense cooperation and strengthen Europe's ability to ensure its own security, their defense ministers stated, citing satellite-based early-warning systems and long-range precision weapons as key areas for joint work.
According to Anadolu Agency, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, speaking at the 14th session of the Franco-German Parliamentary Assembly, emphasized that the war in Ukraine had disrupted Europe's security order, underscoring the necessity for European nations to assume greater responsibility for their defense.
Pistorius highlighted the importance of cooperation on satellite-based early-warning systems and long-range precision weapons, stating these are indispensable for Europe's future security. He stressed the goal of having interoperable forces equipped with necessary capabilities and a stronger European defense industry. Additionally, he emphasized the need for strategic dialogue between the two countries while maintaining national sovereignty and developing a new deterrence strategy.
French Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin underscored that neither France nor Germany could ensure security alone in a world of increasing armament. She stressed the need for European security through cooperation between sovereign states and noted that advanced deterrence requires credible conventional support, including early warning, ground-based air defense, and deep-strike capabilities.
Vautrin also pointed out the importance of strengthening Europe's defense industrial and technological base, urging European nations to focus on what their domestic defense industries can deliver. She warned that off-continent purchases risk reinforcing dependencies that European countries are aiming to overcome.
The ministers cited examples of Franco-German industrial partnership, such as France's selection of the German-made HK416 assault rifle and cooperation on the Ariane 6 space launcher. Pistorius concluded by noting that close Franco-German relations have been crucial in establishing and sustaining frameworks like the Group of Five, reflecting their joint support for Ukraine within NATO and the EU.