The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, during his visit to Washington on 6 and 7 February, recalled the importance of the transatlantic partnership, which is being undermined under the Trump presidency.
“An international agenda based on trust between the EU and the US is key to successfully tackle global challenges that we jointly face. We must always remember that we are sitting on the same side of the table when it comes to most fundamental challenges, even if we don't agree on everything”, the High Representative explained at the end of his visit, in a statement by the European External Action Service (EEAS).
According to the EEAS, during his meetings, notably with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi, Mr Borrell reaffirmed “the strong transatlantic link between Europeans and Americans, which is essential for the security and prosperity of the transatlantic area and beyond”. He stressed “the desire for close cooperation to advance common interests and strengthen the rules-based international order”.
However, according to the EEAS, “in all his meetings, the High Representative has stressed and been reassured of the importance of continued close and regular dialogue between the EU and the United States at the appropriate levels”, the US State Department communiqué does not mention the importance of bilateral cooperation, merely listing the topics discussed between Mr Borrell and Mr Pompeo.
There are many areas of disagreement. The High Representative, who criticised the US ‘peace plan’ for the Middle East (see EUROPE 12418/14), nevertheless offered Mr Pompeo the EU’s support for all efforts aimed at revitalising the political process and negotiations in line with international law “which ensure equal rights and are acceptable to both sides”. Mr Borrell also met with U.S. National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien and special adviser to President Trump, Jared Kushner, who initiated the plan.
He also reiterated the EU’s full commitment to preserve the Iranian nuclear agreement, which has been in bad shape since the US denounced it.
Mr Pompeo and Mr Borrell also discussed the situation in Ukraine, Africa, Venezuela, the Middle East, Libya and the western Balkans.
Mr Sondland leaves Brussels
In addition, US President Donald Trump dismissed the US Ambassador to the EU, Gordon Sondland, on 7 February.
“I have been informed that the President intends to recall me immediately as US Ambassador to the EU”, Mr Sondland announced in a statement.
Pending confirmation of a new ambassador, the number 2 at the mission, Mark Libby, will act as chargé d'affaires, the mission confirmed to EUROPE. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)