European Neighbourhood Policy needs leadership and vision

The European Parliament today adopted the Report on the Review of the European Neighbourhood Policy.

The European Parliament’s Chief Negotiator Eduard Kukan MEP expressed his satisfaction at the positive outcome of the vote: "We need a strategic, ambitious and forward-looking neighbourhood policy. Current developments in our neighbourhood in the East and South have brought new challenges. The EU needs to react more promptly therefore we need a more politically-driven policy more than ever. We need to show leadership and vision for our neighbourhood."

Kukan continued: "We have to be aware of diversity in our neighbourhood. Our partners have different ambitions and expectations towards the EU. We have to be ready to differentiate and offer them a tailor-made approach.”

“We need to promote our values and support the partner countries and societies who want to sign up to them. Support for democracy, human rights and the rule of law have to stay at the centre of the reviewed policy."

“We have to go back to basics and support a more democratic, secure, and prosperous neighbourhood. This would guarantee us all better prospects for the future”, he concluded.