The 62nd Munich Security Conference is concluding, highlighting significant discussions around the changing geopolitical landscape. Opening the day, EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas will engage with leaders such as the Latvian president and the French defense minister to explore strategies for enhancing Europe’s influence in an increasingly volatile world. This marks a crucial dialogue on the European Union's role in global security amidst rising tensions in various regions.

Following Kallas, Christine Lagarde, president of the European Central Bank, is set to address Europe's competitiveness and the strategies needed to improve it. Lagarde's focus on economic resilience is pivotal, given the current economic challenges facing the EU. As Europe grapples with both external threats and internal economic pressures, enhancing competitiveness could be key to ensuring stability and security in the region.

The conference also reflects broader themes in global security, with high-profile speakers such as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy calling out Russian aggression, labeling President Putin as a "slave to war." The significant turnout of approximately 250,000 people at a demonstration in Munich emphasizes public engagement in these discussions, underlining the importance of democratic participation in shaping policy decisions related to security and international relations.