Spain's NATO Stand: Balancing Defense and Welfare

Spain maintains its defense spending at 2% of GDP, considering it sufficient and in line with its welfare state objectives, despite NATO's push for a 5% target. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez emphasizes security and the welfare state's importance, urging focus on joint initiatives over GDP percentages.

Spain will adhere to the new capabilities targets agreed upon during NATO's summit in The Hague, as stated by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. However, Spain regards its current defense spending of 2% of GDP as adequate and aligns this with its welfare state goals.

Last week, Sanchez requested exemption from NATO's demand for increased defense spending to 5% of GDP, a proposal NATO chief Mark Rutte did not accept. Sanchez underlined that both NATO and Spain benefit, emphasizing the significance of security and welfare for the Spanish society while appreciating NATO's respect for Spain's sovereignty.

Looking ahead to the European Council meeting in Brussels, Sanchez expressed a desire to shift discussions from GDP percentages to joint production, purchases, and interoperability among European countries.

(With inputs from agencies.)