Panter for open debate on the arms industry

The Saxon Minister for Economic Affairs, Dirk Panter (SPD), is calling for an honest debate about the arms industry. The discussion must be "open, differentiated and far-sighted", he said on the fringes of a visit to several companies from this sector in the Free State. Freedom requires security, and this security must be visible. "That is why I am convinced that Germany must become capable of defending itself - also economically."

Panter: "What is the alternative?"

The background to this is criticism of the establishment of arms companies. "When there are protests in Görlitz or Großenhain, I listen carefully. I'm also on the ground, talking to people - and taking their concerns seriously. But I also ask them back: What is the alternative? No industrial settlement? No new jobs? No economic structural change," argued Panter. There were plans for an ammunition factory in Großenhain and the Franco-German armaments company KNDS wants to build tanks in Görlitz in the future.

Saxony needs the courage to face up to uncomfortable questions

Those who believe they can deter aggressors with appeals or symbolic politics are ignoring reality, emphasized the Minister. "We need more industry in Saxony, not less. And we need the courage to face up to uncomfortable issues." Many people rely on pacifist traditions, the Peaceful Revolution and the motto "swords to plowshares". "These are social values that I respect. But reality forces us to face unpleasant truths."

Minister: "Life doesn't work according to wishes."

"I don't wish for war, no weapons, no tanks. But life doesn't work with wishes," Panter continued. He also does not want Saxony to fall behind economically because important and necessary developments are being ignored. "As a state, we must be so well equipped and prepared that no-one has the idea of actually causing an escalation. This is not preparing for war, but securing peace."

Saxony's industry is dominated by suppliers

Panter visited several companies in this sector. According to the Ministry of Economics, the security and defense industry in Saxony is dominated by suppliers with a total of more than 2,000 employees in around 80 companies. They produce electronics, sensors, optics and precision technology, IT security and software as well as vehicle technology including special vehicles.

Free state wants to benefit from billions in federal investment

Saxony makes no secret of its desire to benefit from the billions in federal investment planned to strengthen its defense capabilities. The focus is on new relocations, but also on attracting orders for existing companies and start-ups. Panter: "If we, as an eastern German federal state, hesitate or refuse, these investments will be made elsewhere in Germany - and with them new jobs, innovations and industrial value creation will be lost. I think this is negligent."