There is a perfectly good alternative to the European Union - it is called the European Free Trade Association, founded in 1960. Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein are members. E.F.T.A. stands for friendship and cooperation through free trade.

The quote "There is a perfectly good alternative to the European Union - it is called the European Free Trade Association, founded in 1960. Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein are members. E.F.T.A. stands for friendship and cooperation through free trade" by Geert Wilders suggests that countries seeking cooperation and economic partnership in Europe need not be part of the European Union (EU). He proposes the European Free Trade Association (E.F.T.A.) as a viable alternative. Unlike the EU, which encompasses political integration alongside economic cooperation, E.F.T.A. is focused on fostering economic relations through free trade and mutual cooperation, while allowing member states to maintain greater independence.

In this context, Wilders advocates for E.F.T.A. as a model that promotes friendship and cooperation among European countries without the need for political centralization or loss of sovereignty that comes with EU membership. He emphasizes that E.F.T.A. offers economic collaboration without the extensive political framework and regulation that many argue stifles national autonomy within the EU. For Wilders, the key value of E.F.T.A. lies in the ability to maintain strong trade relationships while respecting the individual political and cultural identities of its member countries.

The origin of this quote comes from Geert Wilders, a Dutch politician known for his strong eurosceptic views and criticism of the EU. Wilders has been vocal in advocating for greater national sovereignty, particularly in the context of European integration. His reference to E.F.T.A. aligns with his broader political stance, emphasizing that nations should have the freedom to cooperate economically without being subjected to the political structures imposed by the European Union.

Ultimately, Wilders's quote serves as a call to reconsider the EU's centralizing influence and to look at alternatives like E.F.T.A., which he believes promotes friendship and cooperation through free trade without the constraints of political union. It underscores his belief in national sovereignty and the value of economic partnership without political entanglement.