Local view for "http://purl.org/linkedpolitics/eu/plenary/2003-04-09-Speech-3-257"
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"en.20030409.5.3-257"2
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"Madam President, serious international crises have a habit of highlighting national differences between the EU Member States. Although the Union played a key and successful role in the wake of the conflicts in the Balkans and Afghanistan we were unable to act in time and effectively to prevent, for example, the tragedy that occurred in the former Yugoslavia. The Iraq war has also highlighted differences between the Member States resulting from their history, geopolitics and political priorities. The internal political situation in the different Member States makes the dispute an even more heated one. You do not have to be especially cynical to think that the objective of guaranteeing common European security is still a utopian one.
It would nevertheless seem at present that NATO’s importance is dwindling and that Europe should take more responsibility for its own security and defence policy. General Morillon’s creditable report therefore comes at a very good time. Perhaps the global political crisis that is going on and the threatening images it conjures up will inspire us to make a real effort to strengthen Europe’s voice and its capacity for action.
It is not enough that we should set ambitious goals. We must also be resolved and practical. That is why the European Convention should strengthen the Commission’s role in foreign policy. Unfortunately, however, things appear to be moving in the opposite direction and the intergovernmental option has gained strength. Once again there is a clash between speech and action.
As the work of the Convention continues, at the same time there is visibly increased activity on the part of certain Member States in outlining a common defence policy. It is realistic to work on the assumption that there will be differences within the Union with regard to how quickly things progress, as has also been the case with Schengen and Economic and Monetary Union. It is important, however, to make sure that there are no closed clubs created that not all have access to.
It would furthermore be a good idea to become more familiar with the aims and needs of the foreign and security policies of different Member States. The Greek Foreign Minister, Mr Papandreou, has put forward a proposal for such a scheme. I think it should be put into effect. As, for example, we know the differences that result from geopolitics, we will also be able to identify the potential for cooperation."@en1
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