Remarks

I am really happy that Undersecretary of War, Elbridge Colby, is here today.

He has been a consistent force over the years for Europe and Canada to really step up, when it comes to defence spending, when it comes to defence industrial production. Absolutely acknowledging the fact that the United States being absolutely committed to NATO also has to take care of the situation in the Indo-Pacific and has to pivot over time more towards the Indo-Pacific. And therefore, Europe and Canada stepping up was really crucial.

Of course, since President Trump was re-elected, the whole American leadership team under the leadership of President Trump has been pleading with NATO and European and Canadian Allies to do more. And the good news is: the billions are coming in. I mentioned yesterday, Germany is spending in 2029 152 billion euros, one-five-two billion euros, which is double what they spent in 2021. And that is crucial.

So President Trump's leadership, Secretary Heghseth's leadership, your leadership in all of this is highly recognised. We are very happy to have you here today, Sir, in the meeting and we are really anxious to listen to you and have a great discussion, but again thank you for coming.