The message from EU leaders is clear: we must step up support to Europe’s security and defence capabilities and the EIB Group is part of the solution. In this regard, and in line with the Commission’s white paper on defence just published, the EIB Board agreed this week to further expand eligibilities and increase financing in the area of security and defence.
Our strategic plan on doubling investments for Europe's supply of critical raw materials was also adopted. Altogether, 10 billion euro of new financing from the EIB Group was approved this week, including an important investment in guarantees for farmers and rural businesses in France. The meetings in Luxembourg with Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and in Paris with Prime Minister Bayrou and Minister Lombard naturally focused on our collaboration to stengthen Europe’s security and competitiveness, investments in new technologies for the green transition and joint efforts to reinforce Europe’s autonomy. We signed a new cooperation agreement with the Council of Europe Development Bank. And we also announced new financing for hydropower in Austria, for software companies in Germany, Netherlands, and the Nordic countries, and outside of Europe, for internet access in remote rural areas in Central Asia.
Finally, we held our annual Zero Discrimination event. Unity and diversity, respect for minorities and inclusive societies are at the heart of European values. They clearly make us stronger!
Watch President Calviño's previous One week, one minute recaps.
