On November 30, Minister of Strategic Industries, Alexander Kamyshin, participated in the annual European Defence Agency (EDA) conference in Brussels, under the theme "EDA-2023: Powering up European Defence." The conference focused on concerns among EU leaders regarding the defense capabilities of the EU in light of Russian aggression against Ukraine. Discussions revolved around strategic changes in the overall security environment of European countries, plans for preparing for future conflicts, and the enhancement of armaments.

Particular emphasis was placed on funding, regulatory changes, and the necessity to increase production and develop high-tech innovations in the defense sector. According to the head of the Ministry of Strategic Industries, global military expenditures in 2022 increased by 3.7% in real terms, reaching a historic peak of $2.2 trillion. Military spending in Europe sharply rose, marking the most significant increase in the last 30 years. The expenditures of Central and Western European states in 2022 reached $345 billion, surpassing, in real terms, the figures from 1989 when the Cold War ended.

"Ukraine is on the frontline of this growth. Our defense industry is developing at record speed, and we continue to develop capabilities. The free world urgently needs a new arsenal, and Ukraine is the best place to create it," said Alexander Kamyshin. 

Let us remind, that during 2023, Ukraine's production of military products tripled compared to 2022, with projections indicating a sixfold increase in 2024.

According to Minister Kamyshin, Ukraine is ready to share its experience in using weapons, quality indicators, and methods to enhance their effectiveness. The country is open for collaboration in various forms, including joint ventures, licensed production, research and development, and the supply of components.

"This could be a joint venture, licensed production, R&D, and supplying components. We are at in the biggest and technologically advanced war of this generation. We are losing the most valuable thing we have - our people. This war has taught us (Ukraine) many lessons, and we want these lessons to protect not only us but the entire free world".