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Stockholm – On the day 30 years ago Sweden voted yes to the EU, an EU policy debate was held in the parliament on Wednesday.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (Moderates) began by addressing concerns in the world, especially Russia’s war in Ukraine.
In the government declaration, the prime minister said it is “brightening on the horizon.” Now, when he presents the government’s EU declaration, the tone is different.
“When we look out into the world and across Europe, it is still dark times,” says Kristersson and continues:
“We stand by Ukraine’s side. To help them win the war but also the peace. It is our generation’s most important task. Ultimately, this is a war against the entire free world.”
At the same time, Russia tries to destabilize the EU and influence elections in Moldova and Georgia, he says.
“In light of all this, some things are clear: The countries of Europe need to take greater responsibility for our own security. Each individually and together. The entire European defense industry needs to be strengthened.”
At the same time, the EU needs to be reformed to receive new members, like Ukraine, he says.
The Social Democrats’ party leader Magdalena Andersson, representative of the largest opposition party, criticizes the government’s EU policy.
“It is too vague and weak,” she says in the parliament’s party leader debate.
However, both the prime minister and the S-leader see EU cooperation as a safe haven in an uncertain world.
(November 13)
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