Brussels, 03/01/2003 (Agence Europe) - On 31 December, the Danish Presidency of the council of the EU welcomed the launch of the European Union Police Mission (EUPM) in Bosnia/Herzegovina, the first EU mission in the framework of the Common Security and Defence Policy (see yesterday's Europe, p.2, for Javier Solana's comments). In a declaration, the outgoing Presidency notes: "The EUPM follows on from The UN's International Police Task Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina (IPTF). Excellent cooperation has ensured a seamless transition from UN to EU responsibility. The EUPM will assist in establishing sustainable policing arrangements under the ownership of Bosnia and Herzegovina and in accordance with best European and international practice. It will work side by side with Bosnia and Herzegovina's police services to monitor and mentor, inspect and advise in all aspects of police work, including the fight against organised crime and corruption. The EUPM is part of the broader Rule of Law approach in the EU's overall policy to the Western Balkans Region - the Stabilisation and Association Process. The EU's Planning Team in Sarajevo has worked hard to ensure that the EUPM will be fully operational throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina from the very beginning of the mission. The Planning Team has cooperated closely with international organisations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly the Office of the High Representative, OSCE and NATO. Also police officers from 18 non-EU countries will participate in the EUPM. The EU very much welcomes their participation. It demonstrates the broad international support for - and unity of approach to - peace implementation and support for the establishment of the rule of law in Bosnia and Herzegovina."