Shekerinska commended European nations for stepping up defence spending, enhancing capabilities, and improving readiness, while reaffirming that the transatlantic relationship remains the cornerstone of European security. Addressing Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), she stressed the importance of a strong European pillar within NATO.
During her speech, Shekerinska mentioned that NATO and the European Union are “natural and indispensable partners”, urging further cooperation on defence production, innovation, and military mobility. She highlighted the EU’s economic leverage as a key tool for boosting defence production in alignment with NATO’s military plans and standards.
She also stressed the importance of including non-EU NATO Allies in European defence initiatives, ensuring broader coordination within the Alliance. Shekerinska welcomed the ReArm Europe plan, which aims to strengthen European defence production, as well as ongoing European support for Ukraine.
In a context of increasing security threats, Shekerinska underlined the critical role of NATO and the EU in maintaining stability. “Keeping our people safe is our most sacred duty,” she told MEPs, highlighting the need for continued investments in deterrence, defence spending, and the defence industry.