Luxembourg EU Commissioner Christophe Hansen told MPs on Monday that Europe must reduce its dependencies and strengthen its geopolitical clout, warning that “vulnerability” is something the EU “cannot afford” in today’s sharpened international climate. Speaking in the Chamber of Deputies, Hansen argued that the EU needs to become more competitive so it can keep key businesses in Europe and maintain a role in strategic growth areas such as battery technology, artificial intelligence, and food production.
Hansen added that removing barriers in the EU internal market would be crucial to restoring the competitiveness Europe needs. He also highlighted defence as a central element of the European Commission’s 2026 plan, and said deeper cooperation is essential for smaller states like Luxembourg.
The annual early-year briefing in the Chamber is a longstanding tradition in which the Luxembourg EU Commissioner updates parliament on the Commission’s agenda. Hansen said he considered the exchange important and would take MPs’ concerns back with him.
