LOC20:18
17:18 GMT
BRUSSELS, March 9 (KUNA) -- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that the European Union and United States are "allies," rejecting any change in the nature of the relationship.
"The relationship we have with the US is completely different from our relationship with China," she stressed at a press conference on Sunday, marking the first 100 days of her second term.
Von derided Leyen confirmed that she will meet with US President Donald Trump "when the time comes."
In the same context, the EC President said, "Extraordinary times require extraordinary measures. This also applies to my Commission."
She announced that in the coming weeks, she will hold the first-ever Security College meeting, confirming that this "will ensure that the College members receive regular updates on security developments, including topics such as energy, defence, and research. From cyber security to external interventions, including trade."
"We will only be able to effectively contribute to collective security if we have a clear and in-depth understanding of the threats, including hybrid threats," she pointed out.
Von der Leyen also praised the EU member states' support for the Commission's plan to re-arm Europe, which will enable the mobilization of 800 billion euros to strengthen European defense.
"It (the decision) is historic. This could be the foundation for a European Defense Union. We need joint action," she added. (end)
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