Brussels, 14/12/2010 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 13 December, the EU Council of Ministers encouraged member states and European institutions to fully implement the EU action plan against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their vectors by the end of 2012. In conclusions adopted the same day, the Council also highlighted the cross-cutting nature of the strategy for combating this kind of weapon. It underlines the importance of preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction by including “targeted and coordination action” in all key EU policies and not just in the field of foreign and security policy. In line with the European security strategy adopted in December 2008, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is one of the greatest threats to European and international security. A document adopted that same year on the new lines for action by the European Union points out, moreover, that action is needed to strengthen the EU strategy through greater awareness, prevention and better coordination between all relevant European and international players. (A.By./transl.jl)