Brussels, 13/10/2010 (Agence Europe) - The EU's External Action Service must integrate religious freedom fully into the EU Human Rights Policy, said Othmar Karas MEP (Austria), Vice-Chairman of the EPP Group and responsible for inter-religious activities, at the conference on “Freedom of Religion in the European Neighbourhood” on 11 October. This message had already been included in the written declaration presented on 5 October by MEPs Mauro and Szymanski (EUROPE 10231). The conference looked at how religious freedom is defended in the EU's neighbouring countries and to what extent religious actors can help to improve this fundamental right. This question has acquired particular importance since the EU's external competences were enhanced by the Lisbon Treaty. This treaty also provides a legal basis for continued dialogue between the EU, churches and religious communities. (I.L./transl.fl)