EDIP trilogue: Quotes from MEPs Neumann & Sinkevičius

Today, the European Parliament, European Council and European Commission just concluded the trilogue negotiations on the creation of a European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP). Parliament was represented by the two lead Committees on Security and Defence (SEDE) and Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE).

MEP Virginijus Sinkevičius, Greens/EFA shadow rapporteur in the ITRE Committee, comments:

“This deal is a breakthrough for Europe’s defence base, especially for the Eastern flank, where readiness and supply security are non-negotiable. But Europe must be careful not to trade away its long-term industrial sovereignty. What we develop and manufacture in Europe must remain under European control.”

MEP Hannah Neumann, Greens/EFA shadow rapporteur in the SEDE Committee, comments:

“It’s good news that we now have an agreement on EDIP. With Russia’s aggression growing, Europe must strengthen its own defence capabilities and reduce dependencies. We either stand together and defend every inch of the European project or we risk losing it.

"EDIP is an important step in that direction, but with limited resources. On the positive side, we secured long-term instruments for joint procurement and supply chain security, as well as a framework for Projects of Common Interest that will help close key capability gaps.

"However, we wanted more ambition on joint procurement, on support for Ukraine and SMEs, and a stronger role for the European Parliament. We also regret some last-minute concessions, particularly on eligibility and an exemption from compliance with environmental protection aims.

"The Council still too often defends member states’ egoistic interests instead of the common European interest — but it did take steps forward. Now it’s crucial to bring this instrument to life. We need swift implementation and real European added value for every euro spent."