Brussels: The European Commission has announced that 18 initial Member States have expressed interest in accessing loans under the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument, with requests amounting to at least £127 billion. These countries include Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, and Finland. SAFE aims to mobilize up to £150 billion in investment, focusing on enhancing European security and defence.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Andrius Kubilius, Commissioner for Defence and Space, emphasized the EU’s unity and ambition in security and defence, noting that the interest in SAFE demonstrates a collective commitment. The early interest will allow the Commission to assess demand and prepare for raising funds on the capital markets, with formal submissions required by 30 November 2025.
SAFE is a critical EU tool designed to bolster resilience and security by supporting investments in areas such as defence, dual-use infrastructure, cyber capabilities, and strategic supply chains.