America News Agency

After the meeting, von der Leyen said: “We discussed the importance of strengthening global trade and our international partnership network. In this context, relations with Mercosur are among our priorities. Advancing transatlantic cooperation was also on the agenda.”

She welcomed Spain’s commitment to increase defense spending and emphasized that the next long-term EU budget will play a key role in strengthening the continent’s security, with contributions from national governments and the private sector.

Von der Leyen also noted that the humanitarian situation in Gaza was addressed during the meeting: “The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is at an unacceptable level. Aid must be delivered immediately and comprehensively to those in need.”