- Go to main content [shortcut key S], by skipping site tools, language selector, navigation path and navigation menu
- Go to navigation menu, by skipping site tools, language selector and navigation path
- Go to navigation path, by skipping site tools and language selector
- Go to language selector, by skipping site tools
- Go to site tools
More features 2012
The European External Action Service (EEAS) - 2012 picture round up
21/12/2012
The year 2012 marked a year of intensive activity by the EU's new diplomatic service and the EU High Representative for foreign affairs and security Catherine Ashton.Here we present a few photos that capture the year, month by month – from Nuclear talks with Iran in Baghdad to the UN Assembly week in New York - to election monitoring in Senegal.
EU-Russia Summit, Brussels 20-21 December 2012
20/12/2012
The 30th European Union-Russia Summit will take place in Brussels on Thursday 20 and Friday 21 December 2012.
Foreign Policy debates in the European Parliament
13/12/2012
This week the European Parliament held its last plenary session of the year in Strasbourg and once again Foreign Policy took up most of the agenda on Wednesday 12 December. During this plenary session, the Parliament not only celebrated the Nobel Peace Prize and awarded this year's Sakharov prize to two Iranian Human Rights defenders but also addressed key foreign policy issues. Indeed MEPs debated topical and important issues such as Human Rights, the New EU-Russia Agreement and the Situation in Egypt.
Middle East, Syria, Ukraine and Mali main issues at EU Foreign Ministers meeting
11/12/2012
European Union Foreign Ministers met in Brussels Monday for their monthly meeting on International issues. The Middle East Peace Process, Syria, Ukraine and Mali took up most of the agenda although a forthcoming summit on Russia, developments in Egypt and the Western Balkans were also discussed.
10 December 2012 - Nobel Prize Award giving day to the EU
10/12/2012
12 October 2012 - Cheers all around at the news that the Norwegian Nobel Committee decided that the Nobel Peace Prize for 2012 would be awarded to the European Union. 10 December 2012 – the much awaited day of the Award ceremony in Oslo.
EU celebrates Human Rights Day
07/12/2012
Each year Human Rights Day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations on 10 December 1948. The Declaration was drafted by representatives of all regions and cultures, becoming a landmark expression of global commitment to provide people all over the world with universal rights and freedoms.
EU-U.S. Energy Council Brussels, 5 December 2012
05/12/2012
The fourth EU-U.S. Energy Council met today in Brussels and was chaired by EU High Representative/Vice President Catherine Ashton, Commissioner for Energy Günther Oettinger, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and Deputy Secretary of Energy Daniel Poneman. The Energy Council, a central component of the EU-U.S. energy relationship, promotes transparent and secure global energy markets; fosters co-operation on regulatory frameworks that encourage the efficient and sustainable use of energy; and identifies joint research priorities that promote clean energy technologies. These actions help to boost economic growth, reduce carbon emissions and create new jobs on both sides of the Atlantic.
Third meeting in the framework of the EU-facilitated dialogue
04/12/2012
On December 4, Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission held the third meeting in the framework of the EU-facilitated dialogue with Prime Minister Thaçi and Prime Minister Dačić.
Catherine Ashton visit to Georgia and Central Asia
30/11/2012
Georgia, 26 November 2012Before travelling to Central Asia, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton met with both Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili and President Mikheil Saakashvili in Tbilisi.
STOP VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN! International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
25/11/2012
On November 25, 1960, three Dominican sisters, political activists known as the Hermanas Mirabal, were brutally assassinated for opposing the Trujillo dictatorship. The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women remembers this day.
Celebrate the children of the world on Universal Children’s Day!
20/11/2012
"On the occasion of Universal Children’s Day, I would like to reiterate the strong commitment of the European Union to the promotion and protection of children’s rights everywhere in the world." These were Catherine Ashton's words at the beginning of her statement on 20 November that marks The United Nations' (UN) Universal Children's day.
Gaza, Syria, DRC and Defence on agenda at EU Foreign Affairs meeting
19/11/2012
The crisis in Gaza was high on the agenda when European Union Foreign Ministers met in Brussels on 19 November for their monthly meeting. They said that the situation is "extremely grave" and called for an urgent "de-escalation and cessation of hostilities" by both sides. They also deeply regretted the loss of life on both sides.
Sierra Leone: Election Observation Mission
16/11/2012
Following an invitation from the Government of Sierra Leone and the National Electoral Commission, the European Union has established a mission to observe the Presidential, Parliamentary and Local Council Elections in Sierra Leone, scheduled for 17 November 2012.
EU – Egypt Task Force: supporting the reform process in Egypt
14/11/2012
Greater cooperation between the European Union and Egypt was behind the EU-Egypt Task Force held today in Cairo, 14 November. The aim of the task force is to reiterate EU support for the reform process in Egypt.
Peace, Europe, Future: What does peace in Europe mean to you?
13/11/2012
The European Union has launched a drawing and writing contest for 8-24 years olds, with the four winners being invited to the 2012 Nobel Peace prize ceremony in Oslo.
EU-facilitated dialogue: Catherine Ashton discusses further with Prime Ministers Thaçi and Dačić
08/11/2012
On 07 November the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission Catherine Ashton had another meeting in Brussels with the Prime Minister of Serbia Ivica Dačić, and the Prime Minister of Kosovo Hashim Thaçi, in the framework of the EU-facilitated dialogue.
Catherine Ashton in Morocco and Algeria, 5-6 November 2012
07/11/2012
Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, travelled to Morocco and Algeria this week.
9th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) Summit, Laos 5-6 November 2012
05/11/2012
The ninth Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) is taking place in Vientiane, Laos, on 5-6 November under the theme “Friends for Peace, Partners for Prosperity”. The EU is represented by President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy and President of the European Commission José Manuel Barroso. Heads of States and Governments of the 27 EU Member States and the 21 Asian partners are also attending.
Catherine Ashton visits the Western Balkans
31/10/2012
Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, was in Sarajevo, Belgrade and Pristina this week for a joint visit with US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
Catherine Ashton in the Middle East
26/10/2012
Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, was in the Middle East this week. On the eve of her visit, she said: ‘This is a critical time for the wider Middle East. The close cooperation between the European Union and our partners in the region is essential to help us deal with the political, strategic and humanitarian challenges we face at this time. The objective of this trip is to take this cooperation forward as effectively as possible."
Information Dissemination: a Stepping Stone to Development - World Development Information Day
24/10/2012
Wednesday 24 October marks World Development Information Day 2012 - an important day on the development calendar that recognizes the need and importance of reliable information to fight social problems like poverty and inequality.
EU-facilitated dialogue: Catherine Ashton meets with Prime Ministers Dačić and Thaçi to discuss
19/10/2012
On 19 October the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission Catherine Ashton had a meeting in Brussels with the Prime Minister of Serbia Ivica Dačić, and the Prime Minister of Kosovo Hashim Thaçi, to discuss the way forward in the EU-facilitated dialogue.
European Development Days, Brussels 16-17 October 2012
16/10/2012
This year's European Development Days will put the spotlight on burning issues for the developing world. At a time when emerging countries are getting richer; when Africa is recording unprecedented economic growth and a boom in business activities; but also at a time when food security remains an acute challenge and inequalities are rising, the international development community will gather in Brussels on 16-17 October to discuss these challenges and push forward the global agenda.
Syria, Iran and Development dominate October Foreign Affairs Council
16/10/2012
Sanctions against Syria and Iran were two of the main talking points of the monthly meeting of European Union Foreign Ministers on Monday 15 October. Also on the agenda was the instability in Mali and human rights concerns in Belarus.
EU awarded The 2012 Nobel Peace Prize
12/10/2012
The Norwegian Nobel Committee has decided that the Nobel Peace Prize for 2012 is to be awarded to the European Union (EU). The union and its forerunners have for over six decades contributed to the advancement of peace and reconciliation, democracy and human rights in Europe.
Every day should be the Day of the Girl
11/10/2012
"I am frequently reminded that everything I do as EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy affects the lives of girls", says Catherine Ashton on the occasion of International Day of the Girl Child.
Stop the dead man walking the green mile!
10/10/2012
The use of formal execution goes back to the beginning of recorded history. Execution of criminals and political opponents has been used by nearly all societies. Since World War II however there has been a rising trend toward abolishing the death penalty and this year sees the 10th World Day against the Death Penalty.
Enlargement package 2012 - now available
09/10/2012
On 10 October 2012 the European Commission adopted its latest 'Enlargement package' - a set of documents explaining its policy on EU enlargement and reporting on progress achieved in each country.
Cyber Security: an Open, Free and Secure Internet
08/10/2012
The Budapest conference on Cyberspace brought together leading international figures to debate ways in which Cyber security could be guaranteed. For the European Union, Catherine Ashton set out her vision of how an open, free and secure internet could be maintained.
Jahalin children celebrate Bedouin culture and traditions
01/10/2012
"Every night they train and fire. I hate the noise of the bullets and it almost makes me crazy. And I run away. Yes I run away. But I do not have a bicycle because the roads are bad, and I do not have a car and I do not have a plane. But I have something I can run away with. They come closer, the soldiers come closer and I will whisper you my secret." - Salha
New offices for EU Delegation to the UN opened in New York
28/09/2012
New York, Wednesday 26 September – A ceremony was held today to celebrate the official opening of the new European Union Delegation to the United Nations. Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the Commission, opened the new premises in the presence of European Council President Herman Van Rompuy, Commission President José Manuel Barroso and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.
21/09/2012
Leaders from around the world will gather in New York in the coming days for the ministerial week of the 67th session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (UNGA).
EU-China Summit : joining forces in challenging times
19/09/2012
The 15th EU-China summit will take place in Brussels on 20 September. The EU will be represented by European Council President Herman Van Rompuy, European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso. The People's Republic of China will be represented by Prime Minister Wen Jiabao.
EU-South Africa Summit, Brussels 18 September 2012
18/09/2012
The 5th European Union-South Africa Summit took place today in Brussels.
EU International Strategy for Research and Innovation
17/09/2012
Science knows no boundaries: the EU will strengthen its cooperation in research and innovation across the globe, with Horizon 2020 - its funding programme for research and innovation from 2014 - playing a key role.
Information on the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement
14/09/2012
The European Union and Ukraine have initialled an Association Agreement as part of a joint effort to further strengthen the ties and bonds between them.
EU foreign policy at the European Parliament
13/09/2012
One of the highlights of this week in the European Parliament plenary session in Strasbourg was its key debate on External polices. Parliamentarians exchanged their views with HR/VP Catherine ASHTON on the future of the Common Foreign and Security Policy, the situation in Syria and on the political use of justice in Russia.
Gymnich: Ministers discuss Syrian crisis, water and education
07/09/2012
High Representative Catherine Ashton will chair on 7 and 8 September the informal meeting of EU Ministers of Foreign Affairs in Paphos, Cyprus.
"The EEAS, national foreign services and the future of European diplomacy" - David O'Sullivan
06/09/2012
David O'Sullivan, Chief Operating Officer of the European External Action Service gave a speech on 'The EEAS, national foreign services and the future of European diplomacy' during an EPC Policy Dialogue, in Brussels, 6 September 2012.
Ashton highlights foreign policy achievements and vision for the coming year
05/09/2012
In a wide ranging speech Catherine Ashton, the EU's foreign policy chief and head of the European External Action Service (EEAS), outlined some of the key achievements of EU foreign policy over the last year and challenges ahead. She was speaking in Brussels on Monday 3 September to the Heads of EU Delegations around the world.
Taking the EU- Africa Partnership to new heights
24/08/2012
On Friday 24 August, Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, travelled to South Africa to co-chair the 11th EU-South Africa Ministerial Political Dialogue (MPD). This visit by Ms. Ashton, as well as her subsequent visit to Kenya, highlights the importance the EU attaches to its relation with the African continent through engagements with two key partners.
There are people dying… And it's time to lend a hand to life - World Humanitarian Day 2012
19/08/2012
Many people dedicate their lives to helping others – facing danger and death…
09/08/2012
The International Day of the World's Indigenous People is observed on August 9 each year to promote and protect the rights of the world's indigenous population. This event also recognizes the achievements and contributions by indigenous people to improve world issues such as environmental protection.
Stavros Lambrinidis appointed first EU Special Representative for Human Rights
25/07/2012
On a proposal by Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice President of the European Commission, the Council, on 25 July 2012, appointed Stavros Lambrinidis as EU Special Representative (EUSR) for Human Rights.
Syria and Africa among top issues at July Foreign Affairs Council
23/07/2012
The crisis in Syria, relations with the Europe's Southern Neighbours and developments in Mali, Sudan/South Sudan and Somalia dominated the Foreign Affairs Council on Monday 23 July. Speaking on arrival, High Representative Catherine Ashton, who chairs the monthly meeting of Foreign Ministers from all EU countries, spoke of the "terrible situation evolving" in Syria and reiterated the EU's commitment to the Syrian people and the Annan plan.
Deepening of political and trade ties with Japan
19/07/2012
On 18 July, the European Commission decided on draft negotiating directives for a possible Free Trade Agreement and a parallel Framework Agreement between the EU and Japan.
It is in YOUR hands to make a difference - Nelson Mandela
18/07/2012
18 July 1918… the birth of a great man who devoted his life to the service of humanity - Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela - and what better day to acknowledge the former South African President’s contribution to peace and freedom than 18 July itself… hence in November 2009, the UN General Assembly declared this day "Nelson Mandela International Day"
18/07/2012
Intervention by EEAS Deputy Secretary General Helga Schmid at the International Conference "Women in Diplomacy - Building a Network for a Better World" in Rome, 15-16 July 2012
Reinforcing EU – ASEAN relations
13/07/2012
This week Catherine Ashton attended the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Post-Ministerial Conference (PMC) and the 19th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), held in Cambodia.
06/07/2012
Following an invitation from the Government of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, the European Union has established an independent mission to observe tomorrow's Legislative Elections in Timor-Leste.
Foreign Policy debates in the European Parliament
05/07/2012
The highlight of this week in European Foreign policy has probably been on 4 July session at the plenary session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Indeed the late afternoon and evening was dedicated to foreign policy debates between Members of Parliament and the Cypriot Deputy Minister for European Affairs Mr. Mavroyiannis who was speaking on behalf of High Representative/Vice President Catherine Ashton. Topical foreign policies such as Georgia, Syria, and Egypt were addressed.
Unbreaking the Ice... Knowledge, responsibility, engagement
03/07/2012
The Arctic is rapidly warming up. The period 2005-2010 stands out as the warmest period ever recorded in the region and this is projected to continue into the future. The Arctic's rapid change provides a strong rationale for the EU to step up its commitment to environmental protection and combating climate change in the area.
Cyprus set to head EU Council Presidency
01/07/2012
As from today, 1 July, Cyprus will assume the rotating six-month presidency of the European Union. The country is now hosting the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for the first time in its history. Cyprus is hosting the Presidency until 1 January 2013 when Ireland will take over.
EU completes its police mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina
29/06/2012
The EU Police Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina (EUPM), the first mission launched under the European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP), will complete its mandate on 30 June. Initially launched on 1 January 2003 for a period of three years, EUPM continued its mission beyond this at the request of the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), regularly adjusting its size and role as necessary within the framework of the EU's efforts to support the rule of law.
Building the Security Community
28/06/2012
Helga Schmid, Deputy Secretary General of the EEAS Service, gave a key note speech at the OSCE’s Annual Security Review Conference (ASRC) in Vienna on 26 June.
The EU and Vietnam - the start of an even deeper cooperation
27/06/2012
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in October 1990 between Vietnam and the EU, ties have developed rapidly, moving from an initial focus on trade and aid to a broader, more diversified and more political partnership.
International Day Against Torture: "We must all stand together"
26/06/2012
Today, 26 June is the UN International Day Against Torture which is an occasion to emphasise the importance of the right to personal dignity and security of all individuals around the world, guaranteed within the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Human Rights and Democracy high on agenda at Foreign Affairs Council
25/06/2012
Today, in Luxembourg, the Council of European Foreign Affairs ministers adopted an important new package on Human Rights and Democracy which sets out, for the first time, a unified EU Strategic Framework for the next ten years.
Choose a job… Choose a family... Choose your future… No one chooses to be a refugee
20/06/2012
Every minute eight people around the world are forced to flee war, persecution or terror.
EU-Mexico Summit, Los Cabos 17 June 2012
15/06/2012
The 6th European Union-Mexico Summit will take place on Sunday 17 June 2012 in Los Cabos (Mexico) in the margins of the G20 Summit held on 18-19 June under the Mexican Presidency.
Gender experts meet in Brussels to discuss women's involvement in peace and security
14/06/2012
The European External Action Service (EEAS) is creating more visibility and support for women's involvement in peace and security by organizing two events that focus on sharing knowledge, expertise and best practices relevant to gender and human rights issues in peace negotiations and mediation and in the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions.
Three villages in Nablus reconnect after EU inaugurates new road
14/06/2012
The EU and the Ministry of Public Works and Housing inaugurated today a 4,5km road connecting the villages of Qaryout, Talfeet and Jaloud in the Nablus district. The ceremony took place in the village of Qaryout in the presence of the PA Minister of Public Works & Housing, Maher Ghonaim, the Nablus Governor, Jibrin Al Bakri and the EU Representative, John Gatt-Rutter. The opening of the road was marked with a symbolic race of more than 150 children from all three villages.
Human Rights, Syria, DR Congo, Afghanistan and Tibet highlighted in Strasbourg
13/06/2012
The highlight of this week in European Foreign policy has probably been the 12 June session at the plenary session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Indeed the whole afternoon and evening was dedicated to foreign policy debates between Members of Parliament and High Representative/Vice President Catherine Ashton.
European Village in Kiev for Euro 2012
07/06/2012
The EU Delegation to Ukraine – in cooperation with the German Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the Kyiv City authorities – has launched a special project on Saturday, 2nd June 2012. The project called European Village not only offers an additional attraction for Ukrainian citizens and visitors during Euro 2012, but also serves as a special platform to deliver EU's messages and provide an overview of our activities and assistance programmes in Ukraine
EU and Pakistan launch Strategic Dialogue
05/06/2012
Increasing cooperation between the European Union and Pakistan across a broad range of issues – from foreign and security policy to development and trade - is at the essence of a new Strategic Dialogue being launched this week.
EU-Russia relations & International issues on agenda of St Petersburg Summit
01/06/2012
The EU-Russia Summit on 3-4 June in St Petersburg brings together the leaders of the European Union and the newly elected Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Summit takes place shortly after President Putin's inauguration and formation of the new Russian government. This meeting will be an opportunity for the EU and Russia to further develop their strategic vision of their crucial relationship for the years to come.
Catherine Ashton receives BusinessMed Blue Award
30/05/2012
This year the annual BusinessMed Blue Award has been given to Catherine Ashton for her efforts in promoting peace and economic development in the Mediterranean region. The Blue Award ceremony took place during BusinessMed’s General Assembly held in Brussels on 30 May.
The EU at the NATO Summit in Chicago
20/05/2012
The European Union participates on 20-21 May in the Summit of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in Chicago. Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council, José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission, and Catherine Ashton, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, will be in Chicago, along with 60 Heads of State and Government representing NATO members as well as third states.
‘All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights’
17/05/2012
This is the famous first sentence of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted almost sixty years ago by the General Assembly of the United Nations.
The European Neighbourhood Policy – 1 year on
16/05/2012
In May 2011, the European Union (EU) completed a major review of its European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) which coincided with dramatic changes taking place in the wake of the Arab Spring. The new approach was aimed at rewarding democratic reform and economic transformation on a ‘more-for-more’ basis with greater and broader EU financial support for the more committed reformers of the 16 partner countries* in both the Southern and Eastern neighbourhood.
Afghanistan, Middle East & Development issues on agenda when Ministers met in Brussels
15/05/2012
Afghanistan, the Middle East Peace Process and new sanctions on Syria were three key aspects of the Foreign Affairs Council held in Brussels on 14 May. The day also saw a meeting on Development where a new "Agenda for Change" proposal was adopted which will make EU Development aid more responsive to a changing world. The meetings were chaired by Catherine Ashton, the EU's foreign affairs chief and brought together Ministers from the 27 members of the European Union.
The European Union signs historic new agreement with Iraq
11/05/2012
The first ever framework agreement between the EU and Iraq was signed today between Catherine Ashton, and the Foreign Minister of Iraq, Hoshyar Zebari.
09/05/2012
Sixty-two years ago, on 9 May 1950, Robert Schuman - then French Minister for Foreign Affairs - read to the international press gathered in Paris a declaration calling on France, Germany and other European countries to create a “European federation” around a common project of coal and steel production and, beyond, to maintain pacific relations between countries which were coming out of a divisive war. This declaration and the principles that flowed from it are often seen as the basis for the establishment of the European Economic Community in 1957 – which later became the European Union.From 1985, 9 May was established as Europe Day and events around Europe and the rest of world mark the achievements and challenges of building a Europe based on peace, social progress, economic development and solidarity.
03/05/2012
Already this year 12 journalists have been killed while doing their work and another 161 imprisoned worldwide according to "Reporters without Borders". The latest is French journalist Romeo Langlois who is believed to be held by the FARC movement in Colombia.Since its inception in 1993 by the United Nations, 3rd May has been marked as World Press Freedom Day which is used to draw attention of cases of persecution across the world."Everyone’s right to hold opinions"
"Transatlantic Partners in Global Security": discussing CSDP in Washington
26/04/2012
Security is a global challenge that the European Union tackles with a number of partners, and primarily the United States. Through its Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), the EU continues to position itself as a security provider, in a context of financial austerity and a changing strategic environment. In this context, the EEAS organises a symposium on the Common Security and Defence Policy on 26 April in Washington D.C.
EU Foreign Affairs Council – Burma sanctions lifted – Further Syria sanctions imposed
24/04/2012
The historic changes that have occurred in Burma over the last few months were recognised by European Union Foreign Ministers on Monday (23 April) when they agreed to lift some sanctions against the regime.
Interview with EU diplomat Robert Cooper on Burma
19/04/2012
"When I was there last June, we could tell that something was happening. There was some sort of change coming. We just didn't know what shape it would be".
Human rights, Mali, Syria crisis and Burma feature in Ashton speech to MEPs
18/04/2012
The highlight of this week in European Foreign policy has probably been the first day of the plenary session at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Indeed the whole evening of 17 April was dedicated to foreign policy debates between Members of Parliament and High Representative/Vice President Catherine Ashton.
13/04/2012
While the European Union’s objective remains to develop a durable and positive relationship with Iran in order to develop the potential for a constructive partnership, from which both sides could draw benefits, since 2005 the serious concerns over the Iranian nuclear programme have dominated EU-Iran relations.
Enhancing relations with South Korea: EU-Korea Summit
28/03/2012
Seoul welcomes another important Summit this week. Today, 28 March marks the sixth EU-Korea Summit.
2012 Seoul Nuclear security summit - beyond security towards peace
26/03/2012
The second Nuclear Security Summit (NSS) is being held 26-27 March in the capital of South Korea, Seoul.
‘The World is Thirsty Because We are Hungry’ - World Water Day 2012
22/03/2012
Did you know that producing 1 kilo of beef consumes 15,000 litres of water while 1 kilo of wheat ’drinks up’ 1,500 litres?
How "economics meets politics" - Speech by Catherine Ashton in Norway
12/03/2012
Speech by High Representative Catherine Ashton at the Annual national Conference on Europe, Oslo Congress Centre, Norway 8 March 2012.
“Engaging Youth: Palestine Refugees in a Changing Middle East” – High level conference, Brussels
09/03/2012
Invitation to the media from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) assisting millions of Palestinian refugees across the Middle East.
Ashton visit marks growing importance of Arctic to European Union
06/03/2012
The fragile wilderness of the Arctic and its impact on Europe will be under discussion when EU High Representative Catherine travels to Finland, Sweden and Norway this week. The visit comes as part of preparations to follow up on a 2008 document setting out the EU's position on the Arctic.
Democracy and human rights on agenda at first EU-Organization of American States Policy Dialogue
06/03/2012
Democracy, Election Observation Missions and Human Rights were on the agenda in recent talks held in Brussels between the EU and the Organization of American States (OAS) on 27 February.
Reviewing one of the EU's foreign policy priorities: the Rights of the Child
29/02/2012
In December 2011 Catherine Ashton reaffirmed the centrality of the rights of children to EU human rights policy
Catherine Ashton attends ‘Friends of Syria’ meeting in Tunisia
24/02/2012
Gathering foreign ministers and other officials from around 80 countries, the meeting will seek ways to secure a cease fire in Syria.
HR/VP Ashton and Commissioners Piebalgs and Georgieva in London for Conference on Somalia
22/02/2012
On 23rd of February, High Representative/Vice-President Catherine Ashton and Commissioners for Development Andris Piebalgs and for Humanitarian Affairs Kristalina Georgieva will be in London for the International Conference on Somalia.
More people-to-people contact stressed at EU-China summit
14/02/2012
Meeting in Beijing for the annual EU-China summit leaders of both sides have agreed to take steps to make it easier for European and Chinese people to have closer contacts.
EU and India move closer to free trade agreement
13/02/2012
A meeting in New Delhi on 10 February confirmed progress towards a Free Trade Agreement, as well as regarding security cooperation and collaboration in the fields of, energy and research and innovation.
Europe's ties with Mexico under spotlight
08/02/2012
Continuing a visit to Latin America, High Representative Catherine Ashton is in Mexico from 8 to 10 February for meetings with the Mexican president and foreign affairs minister.
Ashton in Brazil to strengthen bilateral ties
06/02/2012
In her first visit to Latin America since taking office, High Representative Catherine Ashton is discussing the EU and Brazilian positions on a number of global issues, from the economy to the Middle East.
EU helps tackle poverty by boosting trade capacity of poorest developing countries
03/02/2012
Global economic changes have seen certain developing and emerging countries growing both their exports and GDP, while others have become increasingly marginalised. The new proposals aim to ensure that EU support goes to those countries needing it most.
The European External Action Service: one year on
01/02/2012
The Chief Operating Officer of the European External Action Service (EEAS) was on hand last week to launch a report by the European Policy Centre (EPC) on one year of the EEAS.
EU imposes fresh round of sanctions on Iran
23/01/2012
Rising concerns over the nature of Iran’s nuclear programme has prompted the broadening of sanctions. A ban on the importation of Iranian crude oil and a freeze on the assets of Iran's central bank in the EU will be introduced.
Boosting trade, central to African Union summit
20/01/2012
The Development Commissioner Piebalgs will attend the Addis Ababa summit on 29 and 30 January as an observer, further strengthening ties between the EU and the African Union (AU).
Security, energy and trade on agenda of the EU-India Summit
16/01/2012
Ministerial and bilateral meetings will help prepare the ground for the EU-India summit taking place in Delhi in February.
A future for Camp Ashraf's residents
13/01/2012
High Representative/Vice President Catherine Ashton is actively engaged in a peaceful and orderly solution for Camp Ashraf in Iraq.
Human Rights: the “silver thread” in Europe’s foreign policy
06/01/2012
The respect and defence of human rights is a core value of the European Union. This commitment guides and drives all actions of the EU, both internal and external.
EEAS: Report by the EU HR to the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission 
[293 KB] 
05/01/2012
The entry into force of the Council Decision establishing the European External Action Service in July 2010 was the start of an intense and challenging new phase in building the EU’s role in foreign policy and external relations.