We can no longer afford underperformance in foreign policy

Reflecting on Federica Mogherini's performance at her hearing, Cristian Preda MEP, EPP Group Spokesman in the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, outlined the most pressing issues that the future High Representative must focus on: “The crisis in Ukraine has shown that our security in Europe is no longer guaranteed. The time has come to get serious and adopt a clear and strong stance on Russia. We need a redesigned security strategy for the EU and we have to continue the consolidation of the European External Action Service. Finally, we expect the future High Representative to ensure coherence in the EU's external actions. We need a clear strategy, we need coordination and we need to know our priorities."

The position of Vice-President/High Representative of the Union for Foreign and Security Policy is a key one for the new European Commission that will take office in November, especially in the current geopolitical context, which is marked by several serious unfolding conflicts that threaten international peace and have an impact on our security. "Europe needs a vision for its external policies. Europe needs to assume a leadership position in order to tackle the many global challenges that we are facing," said Cristian Preda MEP.

“For the EPP Group, these priorities include a reinforced and redesigned neighbourhood policy, an enhanced security and defence agenda, a strong position on energy security and a well-anchored transatlantic bond. For the security of our citizens, the EU can no longer afford underperformance in foreign policy,” concluded the EPP Group Spokesman in the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee.