1022 GMT - Europe's refining industry is key to the continent's energy policy, says Liana Gouta, director-general of industry group FuelsEurope. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen this week announced a strategic dialogue on European refineries, a move aimed at bringing down diesel costs and ensuring supply, including for Europe's defense industry. That launch is welcome, Gouta says. "We look forward to working with policymakers to ensure that competitiveness, security of supply and industrial transformation advance together, supported by a strong and resilient European refining sector," she says. Boosting refineries is a "long-term prerequisite" for Europe's climate, energy and industrial goals, says the group, whose energy-major members include ExxonMobil, BP, Italy's Eni and Norway's Equinor.