“The investment to be made in defense must contribute to the development of the economy and territorial cohesion,” stated José Luís Carneiro upon entering a presentation session of his candidacy in Évora.
When questioned by journalists about the enhancement of defense investment agreed upon at the NATO summit, the sole candidate for the socialist leadership began by saying he expects to hear from the prime minister following an initial meeting on the subject.
José Luís Carneiro noted that, in the meeting held last week, Prime Minister Luís Montenegro conveyed that he “would advocate for 2% investment in the European Defense Pillar” and would reconvene with the parties after the summit.
“We should seize this political option of the European Union to invest in the technological modernization of our economy, diversification of the productive base, and the absorption of highly qualified human resources in these sectors,” he said.
Insisting that this increase in defense investment must be done “in a way that contributes to development,” the candidate also pointed to the need to contribute to the modernization and mobilization of various sectors.
“Not only of the State, but also of our national scientific system and the productive base among small and medium enterprises, which contribute to employment and territorial cohesion,” he emphasized.
During his speech at the session with socialist military personnel in Évora, José Luís Carneiro reiterated his stance on increasing defense investment, clarifying that the PS is in favor, albeit with some conditions.
“Yes, but it is necessary for us to dialogue to ascertain whether this is an opportunity the country will seize or a missed opportunity for modernization of the economy, society, the State, and its own capabilities,”
The candidate indicated that if this enhancement reaches 2% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2025, as committed by the prime minister, “it will represent an additional 1.5 billion euros to 1.8 billion euros.”
“This financial effort should yield returns in promoting the economic development and territorial and social cohesion of the country, diversifying and innovating economic and productive structures while simultaneously absorbing the most qualified human resources,” he added.
Portugal’s Prime Minister Luís Montenegro committed to reaching 2% of GDP in defense by the end of this year – which, according to the government’s figures, will require an investment increase of about one billion euros.
The prime minister acknowledged today that reaching 2% of GDP in defense investment this year is a challenging objective, but the government is committed to it, assuring dialogue with the opposition for long-term goals.
Besides this target, the NATO summit, which concluded today in The Hague, Netherlands, agreed that allies should invest 5% of GDP in defense-related expenses, with 3.5% in traditional military spending (Armed Forces, equipment and training) and an additional 1.5% in investments such as infrastructure and industry by 2035, with an interim review in 2029.
