Nicosia:Europe must bolster its strategic autonomy by developing more effective defence capabilities and reducing reliance on third countries, stated Cypriot MEP Loucas Fourlas in a video message to The Economist's 22nd Annual Cyprus Summit.

According to Cyprus News Agency, Fourlas identified major geopolitical challenges facing Europe, using the war in Ukraine as an example that peace requires more than diplomacy. He emphasized the need for deterrence, resilience, and the capacity to impose costs on those attempting to alter borders forcibly.

Fourlas highlighted the strategic significance of Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean, describing it as a crucial link between Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. He argued that Europe must enhance coordination, engage in joint defence procurement, and develop interoperable systems, alongside strengthening its defence industry and protecting critical infrastructure.

He clarified that striving for greater European autonomy does not equate to distancing from the United States, as NATO remains a cornerstone of European security. Fourlas stressed that strategic autonomy involves the freedom to choose partnerships without being limited by external dependencies, urging the reduction of Europe's reliance on third countries for essential raw materials, technology, energy, and defence equipment.