During a visit to the Feira de Barcelos in the Braga district, Rui Tavares expressed his opinion that the ongoing debate on defense is significantly flawed.
“The Livre party believes that investments in defense are necessary and important in the current context, but there are different types of investments,” he stated.
As an example, Tavares argued that it is illogical for Europe to invest in the American arms industry, as this would not bolster its position.
He opined that such actions would place Europe in a state of increased dependency.
Consequently, Rui Tavares advocated for the creation of a European defense community.
“If we integrate these investments into the European economy, research, development, and industry, along with the jobs created in Europe that contribute to taxes and social security, we are aiding in the construction of the welfare state,” he elaborated.
Tavares emphasized that Europe must take its defense seriously, but not at the expense of the social state.
“The European social model is a crucial differentiator for our continent from the rest of the world. The rest of the world often views Europe as the heritage built around this model,” he highlighted.
The Livre leader stressed the need for policymakers to strike a balance amid contemporary challenges, urging them not to dismantle the European social model.
“We are facing multiple crises—certainly a global geopolitical one with the rise of authoritarianism and military aggression by numerous world leaders, but also a social crisis that breeds disbelief among the populace, which we frequently hear about during direct interactions,” he remarked.
