Letter to the editor. Rethink our frugal EU line

Sweden is currently pursuing a very restrained line in the negotiations on the EU's long-term budget. Of course, EU money must be used effectively. But focusing above all on reducing Sweden's payment risks being both short-term and counterproductive.

According to the Swedish Chamber of Commerce, 60 percent of our exports go to the EU's internal market. It is estimated to contribute to around one million jobs, corresponding to around 20 percent of all jobs in the country. Our prosperity is thus highly dependent on the European market, which we now risk weakening.

At the same time, Europe is facing growing challenges. We need to strengthen our security, cope with climate change and face global competition. It requires joint investments and political action. Demanding a smaller EU budget in the coming years is not taking financial responsibility. It is turning a blind eye to what is at stake.

And the French peasants, then? The pandemic showed how vulnerable our supply chains are. Viable European agriculture among neighboring countries promotes Sweden's food supply and Europe's resilience.

It is time to look away from the net payment and look at the bigger picture. Export-dependent Sweden cannot both benefit from a strong Europe and consistently oppose the investments required to build it.

Government, reconsider your negotiating line!