THE EU: The European Union has revised its security strategy, highlighting the need for a settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict and calling for an "effective and balanced" partnership with the United States. Denis Staunton reports.
The new document, which was drawn up after months of consultations, is expected to be adopted by EU leaders when they meet in Brussels next month.
The EU's foreign policy chief, Mr Javier Solana, first outlined a security strategy for the EU at a summit in the Greek port of Thessaloniki in June.
The new paper retains the title A Secure Europe in a Better World and remains faithful to the principles underlying the original document.
Officials suggested yesterday, however, that the latest draft has been produced in a calmer atmosphere, without the pressure of divisions among EU member-states over the war in Iraq. It emphasises the EU's commitment to multilateralism, preventive action, security in Europe's neighbourhood and tackling the root causes of instability.
In a significant change, the document drops a reference to "pre-emptive engagement" with rogue states.
The paper talks instead of "preventive engagement" and officials suggested that the EU's current policy towards Iran represents an example of this.
The EU has sought to persuade Iran to co-operate with international organisations in revealing details about its nuclear programme. Europe has rejected US calls to condemn Iran as being in breach of international rules on nuclear proliferation.
The paper highlights the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians as a key threat to Europe's security, and warns that it could affect other parts of the region, such as Iraq.
"Resolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict is a strategic priority for Europe. Without this, there will be little chance of dealing with other problems in the Middle East. The European Union must remain engaged and ready to commit resources to the problem until it is solved.
"The two-state solution - which Europe has long supported - is now widely accepted. Implementing it will require a united and co-operative effort by the European Union, the United States, the United Nations and Russia, and the countries in the region, but, above all, by the Israelis and Palestinians themselves," it says.
Committing the EU to creating a stronger international society, the document says that, in a world of global threats, security and prosperity depend on an effective multilateral system.
"We are committed to upholding and developing International Law. The fundamental framework for international relations is the United Nations' Charter. Strengthening the United Nations, equipping it to fulfil its responsibilities and to act effectively, is a European priority," it says.
The paper calls for a more coherent military capability, with more resources devoted to defence and a stronger diplomatic capability, pooling resources from the EU and member-states.
"In almost every major intervention, military efficiency has been followed by civilian chaos. We need greater capacity to bring all necessary civilian resources to bear in crisis and post-crisis situations," it says.
The document argues that the EU can enhance its political weight in the world by co-ordinating its policies in trade, economics, defence, foreign policy and crisis management so that each element works towards a shared end.
It describes the threats facing Europe as shared threats, which are also faced by Europe's neighbours and partners.
"The transatlantic relationship is irreplaceable. Acting together, the European Union and the United States can be a formidable force for good in the world. Our aim should be an effective and balanced partnership with the USA. For this reason as well, the EU must further build up capabilities and increase coherence," it says.
Officials expressed satisfaction at the high level of agreement among EU member-states about the Union's security objectives. Next month's summit is likely to adopt the new strategy without significant changes, but sources close to Mr Solana made clear yesterday that the strategy will adapt to circumstances and is intended as a guide to political action in the EU.
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