believes the EU must work towards a common defence policy within the broader framework of its foreign and security policy and establish a strong European Defence Pillar. To this end, the necessary legislative and financial measures must be taken urgently;
Calls for greater support for SMEs and closer collaboration with research institutions to meet defence needs and safeguard strategic autonomy;
stresses the importance of expanding international defence cooperation, particularly with key global partners, to enhance Europe’s security stance.
The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) recommends that Digital Innovation Hubs be reinforced to boost the EU’s innovation capacity as part of the transition to a sustainable future. DIHs provide valuable infrastructure for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that might otherwise struggle to become greener and more digital.
In an own-initiative opinion, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) recommends promoting the use of hybrid debt to fund SMEs. This would diversify funding sources and reduce reliance on bank loans, while encouraging investment and supporting the Capital Markets Union.
A debate on challenges and prospects for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the EU hosted by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) welcomed the measures for SMEs announced in the State of the Union address and discussed EESC proposals to make business transfers easier amid concern over their growing number.
