Netherlands accepts France's offer for nuclear weapons cooperation
The Hague (ANTARA) - The Dutch government on Monday (2 March) accepted France’s offer to discuss closer cooperation in the field of nuclear weapons, as stated by the Dutch Defence Minister and Foreign Minister in an open letter.
“This offer provides the Netherlands with the opportunity to strengthen the European dimension in nuclear deterrence together with our NATO allies,” wrote Defence Minister Dilan Yesilgoz-Zegerius and Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen in their letter to parliament.
According to the letter, Europe is facing fundamental security challenges triggered by geopolitical threats, shifts in international dynamics, and rapid technological developments.
“This requires greater European responsibility for its own security. Strengthening Europe’s contribution to both conventional and nuclear deterrence is part of this effort. France’s offer to deepen dialogue on this issue with European partners aligns with this objective, and the Cabinet considers it necessary to accept this proposal,” the letter stated.
Both ministers emphasised that NATO remains the primary foundation for European security, both for the Netherlands and for the continent as a whole. They added that increased cooperation with France would not replace NATO’s collective defence and nuclear deterrence framework, but rather complement it.
Earlier on the same Monday, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that France would strengthen its nuclear arsenal and incorporate a “European dimension” into its deterrence strategy, whilst emphasising that every decision regarding the use of French nuclear weapons would remain France’s primary responsibility.
Macron said France was offering interested European partner countries closer cooperation, which could include consultations, joint exercises, and various forms of other coordination. Several countries such as Sweden, the United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, and Denmark have expressed their interest.