Spain’s NATO Spending Standoff: A Call for Flexibility
Spain's Defence Minister Margarita Robles reaffirms Spain's commitment to NATO despite seeking an exemption from the proposed 5% GDP defence spending target. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's letter to NATO chief Mark Rutte requests a flexible spending formula. Spain currently has the lowest defence expenditure within the alliance.
Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles has assured that Spain remains wholeheartedly committed to NATO, despite a recent request from Madrid to be exempted from a proposed rise in the defence spending target to 5% of GDP.
Speaking in Madrid, Robles emphasized that Spain and its armed forces are a reliable and responsible ally to both the European Union and the Atlantic Alliance. "No one can call it into question," she stated. The remarks followed a letter from Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to NATO chief Mark Rutte, which might impact an upcoming NATO summit where this new spending target will be discussed.
Sanchez's letter advocated for a more adaptable approach, suggesting either making the spending target optional or excluding Spain from its application. Spain's current defence spending is estimated at 1.28% of GDP—NATO's lowest—and there are plans to accelerate efforts to reach the existing 2% target by year-end.
(With inputs from agencies.)
Google News