Charles Michel, former president of the European Council, cautioned on Friday that the EU’s reputation is being eroded by apparent double standards in its foreign policy, highlighting a “temptation to appease” the US and Israel.
Speaking at the Delphi Economic Forum in Athens, Michel emphasized that inconsistent enforcement of EU principles jeopardizes the Union’s influence internationally.
“Double standards are a puzzle that undermine the European credibility and authority. And sometimes, let’s be honest, I have the impression that there’s a temptation to appease United States, to appease Israel, and to be not far from it arrogant with the rest of the world,” he remarked.
He underscored the importance of adopting “a more serious and credible approach” to global affairs, warning that unclear stances toward partners who ignore rules-based conduct harm both the EU’s soft power and its standing.
Regarding defense, Michel asserted that member countries must spearhead efforts to develop security policies and hasten decisions to enhance Europe’s defense industry.
“If we want to make progress in the field of our defense industrial base, that’s not possible. We saw clear political decisions made by some of our member states. And I’m convinced that those with the tradition in the field of European defense,” he explained.
He added, “In my opinion, it’s not only about the EU, it’s about the European continent. It means a collaboration with the United Kingdom, with Norway, with Türkiye, with Ukraine. Without any doubt.”
Michel also revisited his suggestion for creating a “European Security Council,” a high-level political entity designed to speed up crisis coordination and provide strategic leadership for defense collaboration and industry.
Turning to EU-China relations, Michel recommended that Europe chart a more autonomous course, cautioning that it has frequently been “instrumentalized” by Washington in dealings with China.
He insisted that Europe must define its own interests by balancing competition and cooperation, warning that European priorities could be sidelined in any US-China negotiations or conflicts.
Michel reflected on the EU’s historic reliance on Russian energy, Chinese manufacturing, and NATO-led security provided by the US, declaring that this model is no longer viable.
“That’s the end of this model, and we need to address those challenges. We need to be smart … We know what we have to do. Let’s act and let’s act faster,” he emphasized.
Original article: www.aa.com.tr
