Defence Spending as a Catalyst for Peace and Growth, Says Crosetto

Decimomannu: Investing in defence can help build peace and boost economic growth, Defense Minister Guido Crosetto said on Wednesday during a ceremony at the Decimomannu air base in Sardinia. The event, which marked the awarding of licences to new pilots, was graced by the presence of President Sergio Mattarella.

According to Ansa News Agency, Italy is set to align with a new NATO commitment, which mandates member nations to increase their defence spending to 5% of GDP. Crosetto emphasized the necessity of a robust defence system, stating, “We need a strong defence primarily to ensure peace and security, because there is no democracy without peace and security.”

Crosetto further articulated that the future and essential services, such as hospitals, are contingent upon a solid defence infrastructure. He stressed that defence should be an integral component of the state, viewed not merely as a financial burden but as an opportunity for development. He pointed to companies like Leonardo and Fincantieri as examples of how defence can drive economic growth.