The European Council reaffirms the importance of the Eastern Partnership program

The Council of the EU for foreign affairs & international relations published conclusions on the “Review of the European Neighbourhood Policy”.

“The Council supports further strengthening of this regional dimension, including through the regional programmes of the EU and the multilateral framework of the EaP”, - is said in the press release of the Review of the European Neighbourhood Policy adopted on December 14 in Brussels.

The Council underlined “the importance of a special relationship with the EU's neighbours”, noting that “the stabilisation of the neighbourhood in political, economic and security terms will be the main political priority for the EU in the next years”.

“The Council calls for effective promotion of good governance, democracy, rule of law and human rights, which are important for long-term stability.   These topics will be discussed with all partners, in mutually agreed formats, as well as in partnership with the wider society”, - the document reads.

It includes enhanced support to civil society and a renewed focus on the importance of gender equality. “The European Endowment for Democracy can play an important role in this regard”, - informs the final document of the EU Council.

It also notes that full and effective implementation of Association Agreements/ Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas is a key priority which, accompanied by reforms, will result in relevant partners' comprehensive approximation with international standards and EU legislation and standards.  This will lead to the gradual economic integration of Association Agreements/ Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas partners in the EU internal market and therefore to the creation of an economic area.

For those who do not wish to engage in negotiations for a Association Agreements/ Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas, there should be the opportunity to jointly determine attractive and realistic alternatives to promote economic integration and strengthen trade and investment relations that reflect mutual benefits, the Council believes.