this assumes that:

1. dependence is inevitable if Europe is not the most competitive.
2. that economic competitiveness had anything to do with natural gas imports.
3. that our economic system and its basic dynamics are unchangeable.
4. that our needs are unchangeable.

the natural gas situation wouldn't have been avoided if Europe were more 'competitive'; neither would any other geopolitical situation. instead the EU should have — and is currently — diversifying its domestic energy sources. the EU could also work on energy coöperation and reducing energy usage.

interdependence works for everyone. independence is a destructive mindset.

But if we're competitive then the only way is up, you then NEED growth.

But that's just NOT possible.

You CAN'T have infinite growth. That's not a thing.

So either you can run after the "cool" kids that are chasing something that's unreachable, or you can come to terms and settle with "good enough" (the later has the benefit of not destroying the planet in the process)