The European Union and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) held on Wednesday 12 December, to Brussels, their first high-level meeting to strengthen institutional cooperation in Eastern Europe, the Western Balkans and Central Asia on issues of common interest.
According to a statement by the European External Action Service, "the High-level segment discussed strategic areas of ongoing and potential cooperation". It cites in particular transnational threats, including the prevention and fight against violent extremism and radicalisation leading to terrorism, the fight against trafficking in small arms and light weapons, cyberspace, elections or conflicts. "Particular emphasis has been placed on cooperation between the OSCE and the EEAS in conflict prevention, resolution and peace-building", the EEAS adds.
This meeting followed an exchange of letters in June 2018 in which the European Commission, the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the OSCE Secretariat agreed to continue regular consultations to strengthen operational cooperation.
These high-level meetings will be held on an annual basis. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)