Brussels, 24/10/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 24 October, the European Parliament called on the European Union to have a “flexible” foreign policy to respond to threats and challenges - a foreign policy that is both “new and credible” in order to be able to respond to the current world challenges. In a resolution on the common foreign and security policy (CFSP) that was adopted by 389 votes to 114, with 58 abstentions, MEPs call on the EU to show coherence and consistency in its external action and to define strategic objectives clearly as part of a common vision. They want the Parliament to be consulted in-depth and on a regular basis in order to set the priorities and objectives of European foreign policy.
The Parliament also stressed the role of political driver that must be played by the high representative of the EU for foreign affairs and security policy so as to ensure the unity, coherence and effectiveness of the EU's action. The high representative must define the EU's foreign policy objectives for 2014-2015 and the timetable and necessary means for achieving these - especially the Transatlantic Partnership, the Eastern Partnership, the Southern Partnership and the Middle East peace process, the MEPs say.
The Parliament also calls on the member states, wanting the definition of a new global approach in foreign policy. The Parliament calls on the member states to play a “constructive role” in foreign and security policy by supporting the implementation of strategic coordination at EU level. The member states should show their readiness to conduct collective, swift and effective action, and their political resolve to achieve this. Member states have an important role to play in developing and implementing the CSDP effectively, the MEPs state. They welcome the initiative of organising a European Council on the future of European defence in December 2013.
The MEPs regret that the EU has not yet developed a clear strategy for its relations with the rest of the world and that its activities are more reactive than proactive. They ask for a strategic fundamental debate to be held which should include the Council, Commission and Parliament.
Deploring the Council's cuts to the multiannual financial framework, the Parliament recognises the need to make strategic choices and to set priorities to guarantee the targeted and effective use of EU resources. (CG/transl.fl)