Chris Andrews (Sinn Fein)

I thank the ambassador for the timely presentation. With regard to security and defence policy, can he provide further details on how the Danish Presidency intends to work to strengthen Europe’s defence industry and production? How will these efforts interact with Ireland’s neutrality? In what way does he believe Europe’s efforts to militarise are incompatible with Ireland’s current approach to defence policy?

It has been quite clear in recent years that the European Commission has strengthened its position as the executive force within the EU, acting as a president for Europe as a whole and taking positions, particularly on foreign policy, that are not necessarily in line with those of all member states, especially on the genocide in Gaza and Israel’s wars across the Middle East. Ursula von der Leyen has been unequivocal and uncritical in her support for Israel, which I believe represents a very dangerous trend, first and foremost in respect of the EU not standing up for human rights and international law abroad but also with the views of member states on foreign policy issues being ignored. Taking this into account, can the ambassador outline the approach of Denmark during its Presidency towards the European Commission and its President? Is it anticipated that the growing power of the Commission will detract from the Presidency’s ability to shape the agendas and priorities in the EU?