In an exclusive interview with Naftemporiki, the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, articulated the pressing need for the European Union to bolster its defense capabilities and competitiveness on the global stage. She characterized the EU as an 'economic superpower' and underlined the importance of recent agreements, such as the trade pact with India, which Metsola believes demonstrates Europe's potential to create significant economic partnerships and influence global trade dynamics.

Metsola pointed to a recent informal summit of EU leaders, where discussions focused on enhancing Europe's autonomy amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflicts, even among traditional allies. She underscored that the priorities for the European Parliament in 2026 would revolve around these core issues, ensuring that Europe not only navigates current challenges but also leverages its strengths effectively to remain a key player in international affairs.

The implications of Metsola's statements are significant, highlighting a shift towards a more self-reliant and assertive Europe. As the EU confronts various external pressures, the call for internal cohesion in defense and economic strategy suggests a pivotal moment in European policy-making, with potential ramifications for its future role in global governance and economic stability.