The North East Flank Coalition
We, business confederations from the Nordics, Baltics and Central Eastern Europe, are aware of the existential threat that Europe is under. This is due not only to our geographical location, but also to our first-hand historical experiences. That is why, we very much appreciate publication of a Joint White Paper for European Defence Readiness 2030 and the Preparedness Union Strategy as response to the multitude of security challenges Europe is facing and ensuring our resilience.
We also applaud the ambition, horizontal approach, linking security, competitiveness, innovation and resilience that European Commission applied in both documents.
Europe needs a robust and effective emergency preparedness system capable of handling national and international crises. A resilient Europe will be able to ensure the best possible conditions for citizens' daily lives and for businesses' ability to operate efficiently during any crisis. Europe is currently in a situation where reactive measures to crises are neither sufficient nor sustainable. Companies develop and produce critical solutions and technologies that are essential in crisis situations. Companies own and manage many of the critical assets and services that form the backbone of societal resilience. Their expertise, innovation, and ability to ensure continuity in supply chains, infrastructure, and essential services make them indispensable partners in building a more secure and prepared Europe.