THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular Article 47(2) and Articles 55 and 95 thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the Commission,

Having regard to the opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee [ OJ C 100, 30.4.2009, p. 114.],

Acting in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 251 of the Treaty [Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 January 2009 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 7 July 2009.],

Whereas:

(1) National security remains the sole responsibility of each Member State, in the fields of both defence and security.

(2) The gradual establishment of a European defence equipment market is essential for strengthening the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base and developing the military capabilities required to implement the European Security and Defence Policy.