Slovenian minister satisfied with Rutte’s proposal regarding the increase in defense spending

Brussels – The proposal of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte regarding the increase in defense spending, which separates defense expenditures from related investment expenditures, according to Slovenian Minister of Defense Borut Sajovic, indicates that security is not just about weapons. He added that he is satisfied with this proposal, as he sees defense very broadly.

Last week, Rutte explained that during negotiations on increasing defense spending, they are discussing expenditures for direct defense investments and expenditures for related investments.

According to unofficial information, he proposes that 3.5 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP) be allocated for direct defense investments, while 1.5 percent for other investments.

“The division of 3.5 and 1.5 percent, which is almost a third, conveys that security and resilience are something very broad,” emphasized Minister Sajovic after the EU defense ministers’ meeting in Brussels.

The proposal indicates that security and resilience are not just about weapons, but also about strengthening the healthcare system, infrastructure, energy, cybersecurity, space, and above all, the proper functioning of the economy, he further stated. In this context, the minister expressed “sincere satisfaction,” as he sees defense very broadly.

He reminded that at the beginning of the month, the government determined in a resolution that Slovenia will increase defense and security expenditures this year to two percent of GDP, and to three percent by 2030.

The plan for the rearmament of Europe, presented in March, is aimed at strengthening the defense capabilities of EU member states, which includes the establishment of a new financial instrument, in which up to 150 billion euros will be available for member states for joint procurement of military equipment.

Sajovic explained that Slovenia will participate in the joint procurement of equipment if necessary, but it is still unclear whether it will utilize EU loans. (May 20)