By Sama Marwan ,
European Union ambassadors have reached a preliminary agreement today on the “European Defence Industry Programme”, worth €1.5 billion, despite ongoing disputes over the participation of non-EU countries in the scheme, according to diplomats cited by Politico Europe.
The programme aims to support joint weapons procurement deals among EU member states, with the goal of reducing costs and fragmentation in the European defence sector. The plan stipulates that no more than 35% of the final product may consist of components manufactured outside the EU. It also emphasizes the unrestricted use of weapons by European armies and gives European manufacturers the ability to modify products, thereby reducing dependence on foreign companies.
This agreement is part of the EU’s broader efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities, particularly amid concerns over a possible reduction in U.S. military presence in Europe.
The defence issue is expected to take priority on the EU leaders’ agenda during their meeting next week, which will be held after the NATO summit in The Hague.
