7.12.2012   

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

CE 377/35

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having regard to the annual report from the Council to the European Parliament on the main aspects and basic choices of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) in 2009, presented to the European Parliament pursuant to Part II, Section G, paragraph 43, of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 17 May 2006 (1),

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having regard to the above-mentioned Interinstitutional Agreement of 17 May 2006 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline and sound financial management,

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having regard to its resolutions of 19 February 2009 (2) and 10 March 2010 (3) on the 2007 and 2008 CFSP annual reports respectively,

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having regard to its position of 8 July 2010 (4) on the European External Action Service,

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having regard to its resolution of 11 November 2010 on strengthening the OSCE: a role for the EU (5),

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having regard to the declaration by the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (VP/HR) on political accountability (6),

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having regard to the statement made by the High Representative in the plenary of the European Parliament on the basic organisation of the EEAS central administration on 8 July 2010 (6),

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having regard to the conclusions of the European Council of 16 September 2010 on the EU’s external relations,

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having regard to Rule 119(1) of its Rules of Procedure,

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having regard to the report of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the opinion of the Committee on Budgets (A7-0168/2011),

A.

whereas the EU should further develop its foreign policy objectives and advance its values and interests worldwide with the overall aim of contributing to peace, security, solidarity, conflict prevention, the promotion of democracy, the protection of human rights, gender equality, respect for international law, support for international institutions, effective multilateralism and mutual respect among nations, sustainable development, free and fair trade and the eradication of poverty,

B.

whereas the implementation of the Lisbon Treaty is bringing a new dimension to European external action and will be instrumental in enhancing the coherence, consistency and effectiveness of EU foreign policy and, more broadly, external actions,

C.

whereas the Lisbon Treaty is creating a new momentum in EU foreign policy, notably providing institutional and operational tools which could enable the Union to take on an international role compatible with its prominent economic status and its ambitions and to organise itself in such a way as to be an effective global player, able to share responsibility for global security and take the lead in defining common responses to common challenges,

D.

whereas the new momentum in European external action also requires the EU to act more strategically so as to bring its weight to bear internationally; whereas the EU’s ability to influence the international order depends not only on coherence between its policies, actors and institutions, but also on a real strategic concept of EU foreign policy which must unite all Member States behind the same set of priorities and goals, so that they speak with a strong single voice in the international arena; whereas the EU foreign policy must be provided with the necessary means and instruments in order to enable the Union to act effectively and consistently on the world stage,

E.

whereas a substantial transformation of the current international order is taking place with the emergence of new challenges and the creation of new power structures, requiring the EU to engage more actively with present and emerging powers and non-state actors as well as with bilateral and multilateral partners and institutions in order to promote effective solutions to problems which are common to European citizens and the world at large, and that might have an impact on global security,

F.

whereas the new momentum also needs to lead to the definition of a new paradigm for the EU's strategic partnerships, both new and old, and whereas this should be based on shared universal values such as the drive for democracy, respect for human rights, basic freedoms, the rule of law and international law, as well as on mutual benefits, interests and a common understanding of global security,

G.

whereas parliamentary scrutiny of EU foreign policy is essential if European external action is to be understood and supported by EU citizens; whereas the scrutiny enhances the legitimacy of this action; whereas the organisation and promotion of effective and regular inter-parliamentary cooperation within the EU must be jointly determined by the European Parliament and national parliaments, in accordance with Articles 9 and 10 of Protocol 1 to the Lisbon Treaty,

1.

Welcomes the Council's annual report and commends its transparent and theme-driven structure, which provides a clear overview of policies and actions in the field of the common foreign and security policy; welcomes also the Council's ambition to place further emphasis and a stronger focus on the regional context of conflicts and issues; regrets, however, the fact that no possible approaches to resolving those conflicts and issues are outlined in the report;

2.

Calls on the Council not to limit the scope of the CFSP annual report to a mere description of CFSP activities but make it a policy- and solution-focused tool; takes the view that the report should provide more than a catalogue of country-based events and developments and should also address the question of the effectiveness of the EU foreign policy as well as of the means necessary to pursue the objectives of European external action; calls on the Council to also include in the report an evaluation of the coordination and coherence between the CFSP and other external policies of the Union as well as include strategic and organisational recommendations for the future on the basis of the assessment of CFSP actions;

3.

Believes that the annual report on the CFSP should be based on the new institutional framework created by the Lisbon Treaty and serve as an instrument for enhanced interinstitutional dialogue, notably by discussing the implementation of an EU foreign policy strategy, evaluating its effectiveness and outlining its future direction;

4.

Reiterates its position in favour of developing a coherent EU foreign policy strategy, based on the objectives and principles established in Article 21 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), which should clearly identify the common foreign and security policy interests of the EU; calls on the Vice-President/High Representative (VP/HR) to use to the full her powers to initiate, implement and ensure compliance with the CFSP, involving Parliament’s relevant bodies fully in that endeavour;

5.

Stresses the need to enhance coherence between the European External Action Service (EEAS), the Commission and the Member States under the leadership of the VP/HR; calls for improved synergies between the EU and the national level and that coordination be enhanced between the various institutional actors, with a view to better integrating all relevant instruments and policies and delivering a single EU message on key political issues; considers cooperation at all levels between the EEAS, the relevant bodies and committees in the European Parliament and the respective services in the Commission to be essential to enable the EU to develop a strategic approach to the EU’s neighbourhood and to candidate, potential candidate and other partner countries, as well as to other policy areas such as human rights and democracy promotion, trade, development, energy security and justice and home affairs;

6.

Expects the EEAS, by promoting closer coordination between the CFSP and other external policies, to help strengthen the EU’s role and influence on the global stage and enable it to project its interests and values more efficiently, in a manner commensurate with its existing international trade and economic status; calls on the VP/HR to set up the necessary coordination structures and mechanisms inside the EEAS;

7.

Notes, however, that parallel to setting up the EEAS, the achievement of full coherence and efficiency of the EU common policy will require, first and foremost, the political will of the EU Member States to overcome their differing outlooks on key foreign policy issues; considers it essential, in this regard, that EU Member States not only agree on a common strategy for foreign and security policy, but also ensure that their national policies are supportive of EU positions;

8.

Regrets that in several cases statements by individual or groups of EU Member States left the impression of disunity and made the work of the VP/HR particularly difficult; invites, therefore, the Member States to refrain from such individual and uncoordinated actions and statements and to contribute to an effective and visible CFSP; asks on the other hand the VP/HR to make the positions of the EU clearly heard, to react quickly and visibly, and to give the CFSP a clear and specific profile;

9.

Stresses that the role of EU Special Representatives (EUSRs) should generally be to represent and coordinate EU policy towards regions with specific strategic or security interests for the EU which require a continuous EU presence and visibility; takes the view that close coordination must be established between the EUSRs and the relevant EEAS departments and that important thematic issues, previously covered by Personal Representatives, should be reconsidered and proposals put forward for this role to be taken over by high-ranking EEAS officials or EUSRs; considers it essential that defining the role and mandates of EUSRs be made subject to prior consultation of Parliament and that proposals be put forward, in accordance with Article 36(1) of the TEU, on the procedures and remit for the briefings and reports to be made available to Parliament by EUSRs;

10.

Recalls its Treaty prerogative to be consulted in the CFSP and CSDP spheres, have its views duly taken into account and make recommendations; calls on the VP/HR to consolidate the consultation and reporting duties carried out to date by the Commission and the Council in the area of external action; asks the Council to adopt a constructive approach in the framework of the conciliation committee for the external assistance instruments, including the Instrument for Stability, by recognising the European Parliament's right to democratic scrutiny of strategy papers and multiannual action plans, as established in Article 290 of the TFEU;

11.

Stresses that the revised 2006 Interinstitutional Agreement on budgetary discipline and sound financial management must provide for more transparency in the CFSP budgetary procedure and properly address the information requirements of the budgetary authority in order for that authority to be fully and regularly informed on the background, context and financial implications of political decisions in this policy area; takes the view that the European Parliament should receive adequate information prior to the adoption of mandates and strategies in the CFSP sphere; welcomes the support expressed by the VP/HR for the proposal that all important CSDP missions should be identified in the budget; believes, in this regard, that full transparency and democratic scrutiny require separate budget lines for each and every mission; reiterates its position that, in order to enhance the democratic legitimacy of the CFSP, Parliament's competent bodies should be consulted prior to the launch of CSDP missions and should be able properly to monitor CSDP missions in particular; emphasises that in order to fulfil the criteria of credibility and self-definition in the Lisbon Treaty, adequate budgetary resources need to be allocated to CFSP objectives;

12.

Considers that the regular joint consultation meetings on the CFSP should be complemented by additional meetings to be held should the need arise to provide ex ante information; suggests, in this regard, that the meetings should also be geared to learning key strategic and politico-military lessons in order to improve the planning and management of future missions and help develop a forward-looking approach to future needs; recalls, further, its right to be consulted and the need for it to be adequately informed about urgent financing arrangements for certain initiatives launched under the CFSP in line with Article 41(3) of the TEU;

13.

Supports, in line with the agreement reached by the quadrilogue in Madrid on the setting-up and functioning of the EEAS, and in line with the Financial Regulation as modified regarding the EEAS, the creation in the 2011 budget of budget items dedicated to the three major missions conducted under CFSP/CSDP; believes that this improved identification of missions will increase both the transparency and accountability of CFSP/CSDP and serve the interests of the EU; stresses that the identification of major CFSP/CSDP missions must not be detrimental to information and transparency concerning missions of smaller extent and lesser political visibility;

14.

Considers, nevertheless, this new nomenclature as a minimum prerequisite and only a first step towards a fully detailed CFSP budget which would allow a complete overview and follow-up of the missions conducted under this policy; is of the opinion that such a new nomenclature will jeopardise neither the indispensable flexibility of the CFSP budget nor the continuity of action for missions already engaged;

15.

Recalls the spirit of the TFEU, which aims to make codecision the general procedure and which, by analogy, leads to the lifting of specific clauses or procedures that had applied to some instruments or policies under the previous Treaty and the Interinstitutional Agreement; confirms hereby that the provisions restricting the flexibility of the financing of the CFSP are now groundless; underlines that, in line with the above and in order to enhance the efficiency and accountability of the CFSP, a new culture of dialogue, reciprocal trust and exchange of information should finally pervade interinstitutional relations, both in the defining phase and in the conducting and a posteriori assessment phases;

16.

Underlines that, in the context of future reflections on the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014-2020, a thorough analysis of the financial requirements of the CFSP in the long term needs to be conducted;

17.

Reiterates its position that, in accordance with Article 218(6) of the TFEU, the opinion/consent of the European Parliament is required for all international agreements, including those related mainly to CFSP, with the sole exception of those related exclusively to CFSP: in accordance with Article 218(10) of the TFEU, full information must be provided to Parliament at the initial, negotiating and final stages of the procedure leading to the conclusion of international agreements; expects the VP/HR to provide all relevant information about the negotiations throughout the procedure, including negotiating directives and draft negotiating texts, and recalls that in the declaration on political accountability the VP/HR committed herself to applying the provisions of the Framework Agreement on international agreements with regard to confidential CFSP documents; calls for the establishment of an efficient modus operandi that combines respect for Parliament's prerogatives with the necessary degree of confidentiality; believes that a comprehensive agreement involving all the institutions and covering all EU bodies is required in order to regulate access to confidential documents by Members of Parliament;

18.

Notes its Treaty obligation to determine, together with national parliaments, the organisation and promotion of effective and regular interparliamentary cooperation, in particular in the field of the common foreign, security and defence policy; finds it regrettable that there is as yet no agreement on how to take this exercise forward; insists that its own representation in any new form of interparliamentary cooperation should be of a size which reflects the range and importance of its role in external affairs and, on this basis, reiterates its willingness to reach an agreement with national parliaments that will result in a real enhancement of the parliamentary dimension of the European Union as global actor;

19.

Emphasises that CSDP actions should be embedded in a comprehensive policy targeting countries and regions in crisis where the EU's values and strategic interests are at stake and where CSDP operations would provide a real added value in promoting peace, stability and the rule of law; stresses, further, the need for a lessons learnt process more accurate in assessing the successful implementation of each operation and its lasting impact on the ground;

20.

Calls on the VP/HR, the Council and the Member States to overcome the imbalance between civilian and military planning capabilities in the EEAS and to increase the number of staff in the fields of justice, civilian administration, customs and mediation so as to ensure that adequate and sufficient expertise can be provided for CSDP missions;

21.

Emphasises the need for optimal coordination between EU disaster responses and other EU instruments – such as CSDP civilian and/or military missions – which are already being deployed on the ground or which could be set up in the aftermath of a crisis; takes the view that in many cases a too rigid distinction between military and civilian crisis-management operations reflects rather outdated institutional patterns and that civil-military interaction can better respond to the realities on the ground; emphasises, therefore, the need for a systematic case-by-case evaluation of the needs in order to ensure the most appropriate responses since certain crises may require a combination of military and civilian instruments, based on a comprehensive understanding of the links between security and development;

22.

Considers it an EU strategic priority to strengthen international crisis-management partnerships and enhance dialogue with other major crisis-management actors – such as the UN, NATO, the African Union (AU), the OSCE and third countries such as the USA, Turkey, Norway and Canada – and to synchronise actions, share information and pool resources in the fields of peacekeeping and peace-building, including cooperation on crisis management and, in particular, maritime security, and the fight against terrorism under international law;

23.

Emphasises that the establishment of the EEAS provides the EU with a unique opportunity to implement its commitments on conflict prevention and peace-building, with particular reference to the Gothenburg Programme, and to further expand the EU’s capacity to prevent conflict as an alternative to crisis management; to this end, stresses the importance of putting the Directorate for Conflict Prevention and Security Policy on an equal footing with other directorates by resourcing it adequately for policy programming and by strengthening the links with the geographical departments and establishing formal relations with the relevant Council Working Groups; takes the view that the existing separation between the crisis management structure and the Directorate for Conflict Prevention and Security Policy should also be reconsidered;

24.

Warns of the risk that the EU Member States become overly-dependent on third countries for their energy supplies, which could ultimately undermine the independence of EU foreign policy; stresses, in this regard, that the concept of energy security is fundamentally linked to the security of supply; recalls, therefore, the urgent need to address energy challenges by promoting both renewable and domestic sources of energy, completing an effective internal energy market and implementing a common European external energy policy, based on better coordination of Member States' policies in this field, the diversification of energy suppliers and the facilitation of strategic energy infrastructure projects such as Nabucco or other viable southern corridor alternatives; supports an integrated and inter-operable European energy grid; regrets that the Member States are actively engaged in supporting initiatives which in reality are in competition with efforts aimed at securing and diversifying sources of energy supply;

25.

Welcomes the decision of the European Council to invite the Commission to submit by June 2011 a communication on security of supply and international cooperation aimed at further improving the consistency and coherence of the EU's external action in the field of energy; calls, in this regard, on the VP/HR to pursue with determination Parliament's recommendations for the development of a coherent and coordinated policy, in particular by promoting EU cohesion in constructive dialogue with energy suppliers, and especially with Russia as well as with transit countries; is of the view that energy security should also be fully reflected in the EU’s enlargement and neighbourhood policy, including through political dialogue and practical cooperation with partners;

26.

Draws attention to a new generation of security challenges and risks, e.g. cyber-attacks, social unrest, political insurgencies, global criminal networks and economic activities endangering the rule of law and the principles of democracy, and stresses the importance of formulating strategies appropriate to these developments;

27.

Underlines the need to coordinate the preparation to counter unconventional threats, such as cyber threats; calls upon the Commission and the Council to conduct a thorough analysis of the threats and the needs in this field, resulting in a multidimensional and comprehensive European cyber security strategy which should include contingency plans in case of cyber attacks;

28.

Points out that European foreign policy must take account of the external dimension of the European area of freedom, security and justice; reiterates the importance of orderly migration management; considers it essential to secure the cooperation of both the countries of origin and of transit, and to encourage an attitude of solid cooperation among those countries by applying a policy of positive conditionality;

29.

Reiterates its position that the EU must strengthen its leadership in the area of global climate governance and further develop a dialogue with other key actors, such as the emerging powers (China, Brazil, India), Russia, the United States and developing countries, given that climate change has become a key element of international relations;

30.

Takes the view that, in order to be consistent with the EU’s own values, EU foreign policy and external action must give priority to promoting democracy and the rule of law, good governance and fair societies, given that a rule-based democratic society is the basis for upholding human rights as well as for enhancing stability; thus reiterates its position that human rights need to be firmly mainstreamed into EU foreign policy; believes that the new institutional structure of the EU, with particular reference to the EEAS and its dedicated department, offers an opportunity to enhance the EU's coherence and effectiveness in this area; urges the VP/HR to proactively pursue, through bilateral relations with third countries and active participation in international fora, the engagement of third countries in respecting human rights as well as to speak up against human rights abuses and not to refrain from taking adequate measures if they are violated; considering the growing grave violations of freedom of belief, calls upon the Commission to conduct a thorough evaluation and to mainstream freedom of belief into the EU human rights policy;

31.

Considers the question of the freedom of religion and belief worldwide – notably of Christians, persecuted or endangered minorities and religious dissidents – and the inter-faith dialogue a new key issue for the CFSP; stresses that freedom of religion and belief is a core human right, and inter-faith dialogue an instrument to tackle religiously motivated discrimination and violence, thus contributing to political and societal stability; therefore calls on the VP/HR to develop, as a matter of urgency, an EU strategy on the enforcement of the human right to freedom of religion and belief; also invites her to establish a permanent capacity within the human rights directorate of the EEAS to monitor the situation of governmental and societal restrictions on the freedom of religion and belief and related rights;

32.

Urges the VP/HR to ensure that CFSP policies and actions fully implement UNSCR 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security, which calls for the participation of women in all aspects and at all levels of conflict resolution; also calls for the CFSP policies to take into account UNSCR 1820 (2008) on sexual violence in conflict and post-conflict situations as well as the subsequent UNSCRs 1888 (2009), 1889 (2009) and 1960 (2010), which build upon the previously mentioned resolutions; calls on the VP/HR, EU Member States and Heads of CSDP Mission to make cooperation and consultation with local women's organisations a standard element of each CSDP mission; notes with regret that only one woman has so far been nominated to a senior post in the EEAS and that there is only one woman amongst the EU Special Representatives;

33.

Emphasises that effective multilateralism should be the overriding strategic concern of the Union and that, in this context, the EU should take a leading role in international cooperation, support international institutions, facilitate international consensus and advance global action; emphasises the urgent need to address global issues of common concern for EU citizens, such as fighting terrorism, organised crime, pandemics and climate change, cyber security, ensuring the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the eradication of poverty, ensuring energy security, the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, peaceful conflict-resolution and disarmament, migration management and the promotion of human rights and civil liberties; draws attention to the need for improved monitoring of EU funds in line with the European Court of Auditors Special Report No 15/2009;

34.

Welcomes the adoption of the UN General Assembly Resolution concerning the EU's participation in the work of the UN on 3 May 2011, which takes into account the institutional changes introduced by the Lisbon Treaty and enables EU representatives to present and promote the EU's positions in the UN in a timely and efficient manner; considers it essential to engage with the EU's strategic partners in order to find solutions to major regional and global problems; recommends, furthermore, that strategic partnerships be given a multilateral dimension by including global issues on the agendas for the EU's bilateral and multilateral summits; invites France and the United Kingdom, as permanent members of the UN Security Council (UNSC), and in accordance with Article 34(2) TEU, to request that the VP/HR be invited to present the Union's position whenever the EU has defined a position on a subject on the UNSC's agenda; takes the view that the European Union should be represented as such in multilateral financial organisations, in particular the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, without prejudice to Member State representation;

35.

Takes the view that the EU should seize the opportunity of the adoption of NATO's new Strategic Concept in order to substantially strengthen its partnership with NATO, while at the same time developing the EU's foreign, security and defence policies; welcomes, as a positive step in this regard, the concrete set of proposals presented by the VP/HR to the NATO Secretary General, aiming at the adoption of an organisation-to-organisation relationship; emphasises that the EU shares most of the threats to security identified by NATO in its new Strategic Concept; points to the need to find pragmatic ways of solving outstanding difficulties; calls, in this respect, on the EU to exercise its influence for a successful conclusion of the ongoing process for a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem to remove all the differences between Cyprus and Turkey which are hampering the development of closer cooperation between the EU and NATO;

36.

Considers it important to ensure that existing forces and capabilities which are shared to a large extent by both organisations are used as efficiently as possible and that conditions are optimised for the security of European troops and civilian operators; invites NATO to refrain from developing a civilian crisis management capability which would duplicate EU structures and capabilities; calls for a coherent strategy of nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament in the framework of EU-NATO cooperation and in line with the action plan of the 2010 NPT Review Conference declaration; encourages both NATO and Russia to work towards a more stable relationship based on mutual trust;

37.

Recognises that the OSCE needs to be strengthened and its values reaffirmed; firmly believes that the EU should engage effectively in the task of strengthening the OSCE, including by ensuring that the process does not result in the weakening of any of that organisation’s three dimensions (politico-military, economic and environmental, and human); stresses that the EU should also draw attention to the importance of continuing the Corfu Process and of holding regular high-level meetings in order to give political backing to and enhance the visibility of OSCE activities;

38.

Acknowledges the rising international status and importance of the Arctic and calls for a socially, environmentally and economically sustainable EU policy for the Arctic taking into account local and indigenous peoples' rights; regards the Arctic Council, the Northern Dimension Policy and the Barents Euro-Arctic Council as focal points for cooperation in the Arctic and supports the EU's aspiration to become a permanent observer in the Arctic Council; emphasises the need for an Arctic unit within the EEAS;

39.

Reiterates its commitment to the transatlantic partnership as an important element and one of the main pillars of the EU's external action; calls on the EU, furthermore, to reconfirm its commitment to the transatlantic partnership with the US and the goal of a barrier-free transatlantic market, which should provide the basis for reinforced transatlantic partnership; urges the VP/HR to work for better coordination and increased cooperation between the EU and its closest ally, the US; calls on her to ensure that the EU acts as a coherent, active, equal and yet autonomous partner of the US in strengthening, inter alia, global security and stability, promoting peace and respect for human rights; urges, furthermore, that a united approach be adopted to global challenges such as nuclear proliferation, terrorism, climate change and energy security and a joint approach ensured to global governance by supporting and reforming international institutions and promoting respect for international law and the peaceful resolution of conflicts; calls on the VP/HR to coordinate closely and develop synergies with the US with a view to ensuring stability and security on the European continent and worldwide, including on the basis of the desirability of cooperation with relevant actors such as Russia, China, India and Turkey and with regard to stability in the greater Middle East, the Mediterranean region, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan;

40.

Urges the development of a comprehensive EU-US strategy for the improvement of the security situation throughout the greater Middle East, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan which involves cooperation with Turkey, Russia and China;

41.

Confirms the EU membership perspective for all the Western Balkan countries and underlines the importance of a continuous commitment to the enlargement process from both the countries of the region and the EU; recalls that the prospect of EU enlargement is an important incentive for the continuation of political and economic reforms in the Western Balkan countries, contributing to the effective stability and development of the region;

42.

Recognises progress achieved by all countries of the region on their path towards the EU; notes, however, that political instability and institutional weaknesses, together with unresolved bilateral issues, are hampering the further progress of some countries towards EU integration; stresses that the Union needs a clear and common vision towards the region; calls on the VP/HR and the Commission to actively engage in solving the persistent problems;

43.

Notes the fact that the situation in Kosovo remains stable and peaceful but fragile; is concerned about the serious problems and breaches of electoral law which occurred in several municipalities during the recent elections and calls on the EU to closely monitor the situation of democracy in Kosovo; urges all those involved to take steps to improve democratic rights and living conditions for all people living in Kosovo and stresses the importance of electoral reform and fair elections as part of Kosovo's ongoing democratic transition; calls on Kosovo politicians to respect the Constitution; urges the new Kosovo government and parliament to improve future electoral processes in order to secure the democratic rights of all Kosovo citizens and to improve Kosovo's prospects of European integration; is aware that not all Member States have recognised the independence of Kosovo;

44.

Welcomes the dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia and stresses that they can contribute to stability not only throughout Kosovo but in the whole region and help to improve the situation for all of Kosovo's people; expresses full support for the EULEX Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo to address the problem of missing persons in relation to the Kosovo conflict and to investigate organised crime and prosecute the criminals involved, in particular in response to the allegations of inhumane treatment and organ trafficking during and straight after the conflict; calls for a thorough EULEX investigation of these allegations and exemplary trials for all those eventually found responsible; reiterates the need for the EULEX to support and assist the local administration in good governance and to ensure that the mission can function effectively and across the entire territory of Kosovo, by stepping up its activities in the north of Kosovo; calls on the Commission to start immediately the visa dialogue with the Prishtina authorities in order to define the road-map for visa liberalisation;

45.

Calls on the VP/HR and the Commission to enhance dialogue with the political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) following the elections, in order to help that country and its peoples to remain on the road towards EU integration; takes the view that BiH has made limited progress on reforms relating to the EU integration process and that the prevailing ethnic and entity agendas can hamper the fulfilment of requirements for EU and NATO membership;

46.

Is deeply concerned by the ongoing internal conflict in Albania and calls on government and opposition to refrain from the use of force and start a new dialogue to end the conflict and find a sustainable compromise; welcomes in this respect the initiative taken by the representative of the VP/HR in coordination with the Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighbourhood Policy;

47.

Encourages the VP/HR and the Commission to pursue their commitment to the Eastern Partnership with our eastern European neighbours, with a view to their political association and economic integration, including in the area of energy, on the basis of shared European values and within a framework of conditions and incentives intended to trigger reforms; recalls that unresolved conflicts in the region lock the parties involved into a situation where peace is not sustainable; calls on the parties involved to seek a peaceful solution in the long term; stresses the importance of taking account of international human rights standards in the ongoing Association Agreement negotiations with the Eastern Partnership countries; calls for initiatives and actions which would foster and advance regional cooperation in the South Caucasus;

48.

Hopes that the process of reforming the European Neighbourhood Policy launched by the Commission will lead to a new strategic vision and a differentiated approach within the same policy, concerning the areas of interest, according to the diversity of the Union's interests, challenges and regional threats;

49.

Reaffirms the necessity of a coherent approach in the regional cooperation processes through the operationalisation of the initiatives and instruments proposed by the EU for its Eastern neighbourhood (European Partnership, Black Sea Synergy/EU Strategy for the Black Sea, etc.); takes the view that it is necessary to ensure the complementarity and differentiation between the proposed initiatives, especially at project level, for a more efficient use of resources and in order to obtain concrete results;

50.

Condemns the severe repression carried out by the regime of Belarusian President Lukashenko against members of the opposition, journalists and representatives of civil society following the presidential elections of 19 December 2010 and calls for the immediate release of all those who have been detained and for them to be cleared of all charges; welcomes the decision of the Council of 31 January 2011 to impose a visa ban and to freeze financial assets of 157 selected Belarusian officials; takes the position that sanctions against the Belarusian government officials should remain in force until all political prisoners are released from Belarusian prisons; welcomes the outcome of the International Conference of Donors on ‧Solidarity with Belarus‧ of 2 February 2011, as part of which the EU has pledged EUR 17.3 million for actions to support civil society, in particular students and the independent media; takes the view that the Commission should enhance people-to-people contacts between the EU and Belarus; encourages those Member States which have not yet done so to take unilateral steps to facilitate the issuance and to reduce the price of short-term visas, in particular Schengen visas, since they are most relevant to the wider society, students and other young people; stresses the importance of ensuring that Belarus does not become isolated, in particular from the existing regional frameworks;

51.

Calls for the prompt establishment of the EU-Neighbourhood-East Parliamentary Assembly (EURONEST), without the participation of the Belarusian Parliament, thereby emphasising its role in strengthening democracy and democratic institutions and its importance in enhancing the parliamentary dimension of the Partnership;

52.

Regrets the lack of any substantial progress as regards the resolution of the frozen conflicts in the South Caucasus; stresses that this is a stumbling block that hinders the development of a genuine multilateral and regional dimension of the Eastern Partnership; expects an enhanced engagement of the EEAS in the region and calls for a more proactive role aimed at facilitating the dialogue between the parties, developing confidence-building measures and encouraging people-to-people contacts, thus paving the way for a lasting settlement;

53.

Underlines the importance of a more active EU role in the resolution of the frozen conflicts in Transnistria and South Caucasus;

54.

Salutes and supports the commitment of the authorities of the Republic of Moldova to strengthen their relationship with the European Union regarding the conclusion of the Association Agreement, the development of a dialogue on visa liberalisation and the beginning of negotiations on a free trade agreement;

55.

Calls on the Commission to accelerate the implementation of the projects under the Black Sea Synergy and to maintain this issue on the agenda of the EEAS;

56.

Underlines the significance of the Black Sea region within the Eastern Partnership and considers that a greater involvement of the European Union is necessary in this respect;

57.

Recognises the big potential for developing strategic cooperation between the EU and Central Asia; taking into account the region's geopolitical location, and calls for enhanced cooperation in addressing the common security challenges as well as on political, economic and energy issues; stresses the urgency to address water management issues at regional level in order to promote an overall sustainable development, improve human security, facilitate good-neighbourly relations and prevent conflicts;

58.

Calls on the VP/HR to ensure that the EU's approach towards Russia, including in the negotiations on a new EU-Russia Agreement, is coherent; urges her, furthermore, to ensure that enhancing the rule of law, including international law, the principles of reciprocity and transparency, as well as a commitment to the values of pluralist democracy and respect for human rights, constitute the core of the new comprehensive agreement; emphasises that a commitment to improve the human rights situation in Russia and to fight corruption, especially in the judiciary, must be an integral part of this new agreement; expects steady progress in the current negotiations;

59.

Emphasises that strengthening the rule of law in all areas of Russian public life, including the economy, would benefit society as a whole; calls for the strengthening of the EU-Russia human rights dialogue in order to promote positive changes in the human rights situation in Russia; calls for actions and implementation of initiatives which would enhance contacts between European and Russian civil societies and which would strengthen Russian civil society; stresses the importance of the Partnership for Modernisation in this context; underlines at the same time the need for a reinvigorated partnership with Russia, based on mutual respect and reciprocity, on the issues of the fight against terrorism, energy security and supply, climate change, disarmament, conflict prevention and nuclear non-proliferation, including with reference to Iran, Afghanistan and the Middle East, in pursuit of the goal of strengthening global security and stability;

60.

Calls on the VP/HR to intensify talks with Russia to assure the unconditional fulfilment and implementation of all the provisions of the six-point agreement of 2008 between Russia, the European Union and Georgia as well as to work towards an ultimate solution of this conflict which respects the territorial integrity of Georgia; takes the view that Russia should, in particular, guarantee full unlimited access of the European Union Monitoring Mission (EUMM) to Abkhazia and South Ossetia; underlines the necessity to provide stability in aforementioned Georgian regions;

61.

Stresses the need for a long-term strategic approach to be taken by both the EU and Turkey towards their future relationship; welcomes the statement by the Council of 14 December 2010 calling for intensified cooperation on security and foreign policy issues of mutual interest; takes the view that Ankara’s increasingly active foreign policy poses new challenges and opportunities for the CFSP; urges the VP/HR to engage Turkey in an institutionalised dialogue on key strategic issues – such as energy policy, stability in the Western Balkans and the Caucasus regions, Iran’s nuclear programme or the democratic awakening underway in the Middle East – thereby ensuring closer alignment of objectives as well as injecting new dynamism into bilateral relations; emphasises, however, that such a dialogue should not replace, but complement and reinforce, Turkey’s accession process;

62.

Deplores the virtual stagnation of Turkey's accession process; recalls that all the Member States of the EU and Turkey are jointly responsible for overcoming the obstacles on Turkey's path towards membership of the EU; warns of serious long-term problems if the EU-Turkey relationship is not stabilised and the EU and NATO continue to be prevented from achieving their goal of closer cooperation; hopes in any case that Turkey will continue its modernisation along European lines;

63.

Supports the resumption of direct peace talks between Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA) and stresses the need for meaningful negotiations to be conducted within a limited time frame and in a climate of mutual trust, a climate which can only exist if the policy of continuing to build settlements is immediately stopped by Israel; recalls that the EU is the largest contributor to the PA and Israel's main trading partner, thus having a direct interest in persuading both parties to address as soon as possible the fundamental questions to be settled (namely refugees, borders and the status of Jerusalem) and in having a viable State of Palestine living in peace, side by side with the State of Israel; stresses the need for a two-state solution and recognises the right of both to live one next to the other in security, prosperity and peace; welcomes, therefore, the Council Conclusions on the Middle East Peace Process of 13 December 2010 and the declared will of the EU to assist the parties to achieve this goal;

64.

Calls on the EU, in line with the Council Conclusions of 12 December 2009, to assume a stronger political role commensurate with its financial involvement in the region; is convinced that there is an urgent need for a comprehensive reshaping of EU policy towards the Middle East, in order for it to perform a decisive and coherent political role, accompanied by effective diplomatic tools, in the interests of peace and security in this neighbouring region of vital strategic interest to the EU; calls on the VP/HR to present a new European strategy for the region outlining the EU’s interests and aims and the means it can employ, promoting democracy and the rule of law in the region and channelling resources primarily into the strengthening of civil society;

65.

Is deeply disturbed at the use of force against Camp Ashraf residents in Iraq, resulting in casualties, and deplores the loss of life; calls on the Iraqi government to refrain from the use of violence and to respect the human rights of the Camp’s residents; calls for an independent international inquiry, including free access to Camp Ashraf, for a comprehensive assessment of the situation on the ground; calls on all the parties to show restraint and find a peaceful and sustainable solution to the situation;

66.

Declares its solidarity with the citizens in the countries of the Southern Neighbourhood fighting for democracy, freedom and social justice; calls on the EU to offer unequivocal and prompt support to new aspirations to democracy, freedom and social justice; remains concerned by the absence in the EU's Mediterranean policy of a clear long-term strategic vision for progress and development in the region; calls for clarification and improvement of the rationale, goals and working methods of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM); considers therefore that it is of the utmost importance and urgency to rethink and overhaul the EU strategy towards the Mediterranean and urges, in this regard, that the Strategic Review of the ENP must fully take into consideration and reflect the new developments in the region and set up a political dialogue with the EU's southern neighbours; asks, in addition, for the UfM to be redesigned in order to contribute actively and efficiently to democratic, sustainable and fair societies in the whole region; stresses the importance of women’s participation in the democratic transition and institutional reforms; emphasises again that the strengthening of democracy, the rule of law, good governance, the fight against corruption and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms are essential elements of this dialogue;

67.

Recalls its role within the EU’s budget procedure and emphasises the need to ensure the UfM’s democratic legitimacy, that decisions are taken in a transparent manner and that the European Parliament, the Parliamentary Assembly of the UfM and the national parliaments are involved in the decision-making process;

68.

Follows closely the situation in Tunisia, Egypt and other countries in the region; supports the legitimate aspirations of the peoples to democracy, freedom and social justice; calls on the EU to build up a partnership based on mutual interest and focusing on employment, education and training in order to help alleviate the current social and economic crisis in these countries, and to provide appropriate assistance that may be needed to support the ongoing political reforms and social and economic development; underlines the importance of supporting institutional capacity-building, an independent judicial system, the strengthening of civil-society organisations and the formation of pluralist political parties within a secular system; welcomes the referendum on the constitutional reforms in Egypt; encourages the Egyptian authorities to continue with the revision of the Constitution and the electoral law with a view to free and fair elections;

69.

Regrets the lack of cohesion between EU Member States on how to address the situation in Libya, which narrows the scope for comprehensive CFSP actions by the VP/HR on this issue; welcomes, however, the Council's decision to set up a European Union military operation in support of humanitarian assistance operations in response to the crisis situation in Libya, the so called EUFOR Libya operation;

70.

Stresses that the violent crackdown against peaceful protesters in Syria, with hundreds killed and arrested, must end immediately; calls on the Syrian President and Government to address the legitimate demands of the Syrian people by engaging in a genuine national dialogue aimed at implementing essential political, economic and social reforms and to put an end to the policy of repression of political opposition, civil society and human rights defenders; welcomes the UN Human Rights Council resolution condemning the Syrian government’s violence against peaceful demonstrators and the sending of a fact-finding mission by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to the country; urges the EU and its Member States to take ongoing events in Syria into full consideration in their bilateral relations with the country, including the suspension of further negotiations over the EU-Syria Association Agreement, the review of the cooperation with Syrian authorities under ENPI, and serious and targeted sanctions against the Syrian regime with the aim of achieving a change in the regime’s policies;

71.

Urges the authorities of Bahrain and Yemen to refrain from the use of force against protesters and to respect their right to freedom of assembly and expression; stresses that those responsible for the loss of life and injuries caused will, as soon as possible, be held accountable and brought to justice either before national courts or before the International Criminal Court in the Hague calls on the European Union and its Member States to support the peaceful democratic aspirations of people in Bahrain and Yemen, to review their policies towards those countries, to respect the EU Code of Conduct on Arms Exports, and to stand ready to assist, in case of a serious commitment by national authorities, in the implementation of concrete political, economic and social reform agendas in those countries; expresses its deepest concern about the evolution of the situation in Bahrain and notably the sentencing to death of four protesters on 28 April 2011; invites the VP/HR to put pressure on the Bahraini authorities to adopt a moratorium on executions as well as to ensure fair trials with adequate legal representation and the right to appeal;

72.

Reiterates its full support for the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) as an independent court, created by UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1757 and meeting the highest judicial standards; reaffirms its strong support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Lebanon and for the full functioning of all Lebanese institutions; stresses that internal stability and respect for international law are fully compatible; calls on all the Lebanese political forces to continue to engage in an open and constructive dialogue to foster the welfare, prosperity and security of all Lebanese citizens; commends the crucial role of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and calls for the implementation of all the provisions of UNSC Resolution 1701;

73.

Stresses that the starting point for any long-term solution to the Afghan crisis must be the Afghan citizens’ interests as regards their internal security, civil protection, and economic and social progress, and should include concrete measures for the eradication of poverty and discrimination against women, for enhancing respect for human rights and the rule of law, as well as reconciliation mechanisms, an end to opium production, a robust state-building exercise, the integration of Afghanistan into the international community and the banishing of al-Qa'ida from the country; stresses that Afghanistan must be provided with a police force capable of ensuring a minimum standard of security able to permit a subsequent withdrawal of the foreign military presence from the country; reiterates its position that a meaningful engagement of the EU and the international community at large in Afghanistan should focus on supporting the Afghans in building their own state, with stronger democratic institutions capable of representing the people, ensuring the rule of law, peace, territorial integrity, sustainable social and economic development, improving living conditions for all its citizens and notably women and children, while respecting the historical, religious, spiritual and cultural traditions of all of the country's ethnic and religious communities; further recalls the importance of supporting civil society, building democratic institutions, such as training the security forces and the judiciary, and supporting independent media, NGOs and parliamentary scrutiny;

74.

Reiterates its view that Pakistan has a key role in the region and that a stable, secular and lawful Pakistan is of vital importance to stability in Afghanistan and the wider region; stresses, furthermore, Pakistan's potential role in the Afghan peace process; stresses that Pakistan must not serve as a safe haven for al-Qa’ida and the Taliban; recognises that the devastating floods of August 2010 have been a setback for Pakistan's new government, which had been starting to make progress in dealing with numerous challenges; urges the Council and the Commission, together with the wider international community, to respond with a strong show of solidarity and concrete support to Pakistan's urgent need for post-flood reconstruction and rehabilitation and the country's aspirations to build a strong and prosperous society; welcomes and further encourages EU efforts to bolster political support for stepping up institution- and capacity-building in Pakistan and helping Pakistan's democratic institutions to combat extremism, in particular by seeking the abolition of the blasphemy laws and supporting Pakistan's civil society; calls on Pakistan to immediately adhere to the Non-Proliferation Treaty and to fully cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency in disclosing Pakistan's nuclear arsenal and facilities;

75.

Fully endorses the commitment of the E3+3 to seeking an early negotiated solution to the Iranian nuclear issue with a view to restoring international confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme in accordance with a central tenet of the NPT; supports the Council's twin-track approach aimed at finding a diplomatic solution, as that is the only viable option for a response to the Iranian nuclear issue; regrets that UNSC Resolution 1929(2010) introducing a fourth round of sanctions against Iran over its nuclear programme and the additional restrictive measures announced by the EU, the US, Japan, Canada and Australia became unavoidable as a result of Iran's lack of full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) regarding the goals of its nuclear programme; stresses that a solution for the nuclear question cannot be found at the expense of EU support to Iranian civil society and its just claims for universal human rights and genuinely democratic elections;

76.

Strongly condemns the continuing provocative, inflammatory and anti-Semitic rhetoric of the Iranian President, who has called for Israel to be ‘wiped out’, and particularly deplores the threats made against the very existence of the State of Israel; is very concerned by the exponentially rising numbers of executions in Iran, which come down to extrajudicial state murder in view of the lack of any due process, as well as by the continued systematic repression of citizens aspiring to more freedom and democracy; stresses that official mutual contacts between the delegations of the European Parliament and the Majlis should also be used to address human rights issues, should be conditional on free access to visit political prisoners and human rights activists and the representatives should be given the opportunity to exchange freely a full range of political opinions; calls on the VP/HR to make arrangements for re-establishing an EU Delegation in Iran in order to be able to monitor, from an EU perspective, the situation on the ground; urges the Iranian regime to abstain from interference to Iraqi internal affairs;

77.

Expresses its satisfaction at the intensification of sectoral dialogues with China and calls for concerted joint work on the controversial issues highlighted at the recent EU-China Summit; welcomes the progress towards better economic and judicial governance; is deeply worried about the continuing severe and systematic violations of human rights in the country, including of minority rights and particularly those of Tibetans, Uighurs and Mongols, and calls upon the VP/HR to step up the human rights dialogue and to ensure that human rights are constantly on the agenda;

78.

Points out that relations with Japan will be profoundly affected by the terrible earthquake, tsunami and subsequent nuclear catastrophe which has struck the country and expects the EU to show solidarity and provide support in order to help the Japanese authorities to come to terms with the disaster; considers that, particularly after the recent dramatic events, EU relations with Japan, a country which shares the EU's democratic values and concern for human rights, remain extremely important both in economic terms and as regards working together in multinational fora; stresses that the current focus on China must not overshadow the necessary efforts to step up cooperation with Japan and remove the remaining barriers to economic interpenetration;

79.

Welcomes the steps taken by the parties on both sides of the Taiwan Strait which resulted in the signing of some 15 agreements, including the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and an agreement on intellectual property rights, in June 2010; given that the expansion of cross-strait economic relations is in the interest of both sides and of the EU, strongly supports the enhancement of EU-Taiwan economic ties and the signing of an EU-Taiwan economic cooperation agreement; reiterates its support for Taiwan's meaningful participation as an observer in relevant international organisations and activities, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO); commends the EU's decision to grant a visa exemption to Taiwan citizens, which will contribute towards strengthening trade and investment relations between the EU and Taiwan as well as people-to-people contacts;

80.

Recognises the enormous importance of India as an emerging regional economic power and as a great democratic partner for Europe; commends India's cooperation with the EU, notably in Afghanistan and with the Atalanta operation; calls for closer cooperation on issues relating to nuclear disarmament, climate change, global economic governance and the promotion of democracy, the rule of law and human rights; expresses its concern at the challenges to civil liberties and human rights in Jammu and Kashmir and at the persistence of cultural discrimination on the basis of caste; expects the strategic partnership with India to develop in accordance with the Joint Action Plan, so as to yield concrete results; looks forward to the early conclusion and signature of a free-trade agreement but, at the same time, underlines the importance that the current negotiations on such an agreement should in no way jeopardise efforts to reduce poverty in India;

81.

Expresses strong support and encouragement for the partnerships with the African Union (AU) and other African regional organisations in addressing stability and security concerns on the African continent and in ensuring progress in other key areas, such as democratic governance and human rights, climate change and the achievement of the MDGs; believes that the process of progressive AU ownership and empowerment with regard to security and stability issues on the African continent, in particular as far as peacekeeping missions are concerned, requires the consolidation of the institution-building and decision-making processes within the AU, and that the EU should assist the AU in this regard;

82.

Expresses its support for the decision to devise a comprehensive EU approach to the Horn of Africa region, by helping rebuild state institutions in Somalia and by linking human security with development, the rule of law, respect for human rights and women's rights, thereby encompassing all EU instruments with a view to providing long-term solutions;

83.

Welcomes the EU's readiness to support the peaceful implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in Sudan and to work towards long-term regional stability; stresses, at the same time, the need to renew efforts to address insecurity and reach a lasting peace settlement for Darfur; takes the view that the upcoming independence of South Sudan has implications for the stability of culturally divided states and poses challenges for which the VP/HR should be prepared; congratulates the Sudanese people on the smooth running of the referendum in South Sudan, as confirmed by the EU's election observation mission; calls on the EU to continue to support the efforts made by the parties to make progress on the matters pending under the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, paying particular attention to the situation of refugees and returnees, and to consider the measures necessary to guarantee the sustainability of the North-South relationship after the referendum;

84.

Recalls that Alassane Ouattara is the only legitimate winner of the presidential elections held in Côte d'Ivoire on 28 November 2010 and that the election results cannot be challenged; takes note of the arrest of incumbent leader Laurent Gbagbo and hopes that this will contribute to the end of violence; urges all political and armed forces in the country to respect the will of the Ivorian electorate and to ensure the peaceful transfer of power without delay, and calls, in this respect, for law and order to be restored; invites the EU to fully support President Quattara in efforts aimed at reconciliation, recovery and development as well as in promoting prosperity and stability for the Ivorian people;

85.

Believes that the EU should adopt a comprehensive approach to security and stability concerns in the Sahel region; insists that terrorism and transnational organised crime (drug, arms, cigarette and human smuggling) pose serious threats not only to the countries of the region but also directly to the European Union; deems it necessary for the EU to help the countries of the region develop policies and instruments to tackle these growing security threats by employing all relevant EU instruments to resolve persisting conflicts such as the Western Sahara conflict and to promote democratic reforms in all the countries of the region, eradicate poverty, guarantee sustainable development, address climate change concerns in the region, manage South-South and South-North migratory flows and ensure democracy and the rule of law, human rights, institution-building (notably for the security sector) and the fight against organised crime; believes that a process of consensus-building amongst the countries of the region, in cooperation with, and with the progressive ownership of, the AU, should also be put in place;

86.

Welcomes the Council's decision regarding Zimbabwe to renew the restrictive measures against certain politicians, officials and companies that maintain the Mugabe regime in power; regrets that sufficient democratic change has not yet taken place and calls upon SADC countries, in particular, to help ensure that Zimbabwe progresses rapidly to free and fair internationally observed elections and that there is a rapid movement towards a smooth transition of power;

87.

Expresses concern at the closure of the CSDP Mission in Guinea-Bissau in September 2010 and urges the Council and the VP/HR to consider new ways to fight organised crime in Guinea-Bissau, preventing that country from becoming another narco-state;

88.

Welcomes the conclusion of the negotiations on the Association Agreement with Central America and on the Multi-Party Trade Agreement with Peru and Colombia; stresses, nonetheless, that the EU should continue to give priority to regional integration processes in Latin America; notes with satisfaction that the negotiations on the Association Agreement with Mercosur have resumed, and calls for their swift conclusion;

89.

Acknowledges the positive results of the EU-LAC Summit in Madrid and underlines the need to monitor implementation of the Madrid Action Plan; recalls the need for a Euro-Latin American Charter for Peace and Security to be adopted, and for this charter to include, on the basis of the UN Charter and related international law, strategies and guidelines for joint political and security action to deal with common threats and challenges;

90.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Council, the Commission, the governments and parliaments of the EU Member States, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the Secretary-General of NATO, the President of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, the Chairman-in-Office of the OSCE, the President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, the Chairman of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe and the President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.