The European Union values a dynamic, pluralistic and competent civil society - a crucial component of any democratic system - and recognises the importance of constructive relations between states and civil society. Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) are important actors in governance and accountability, partners in fostering social development and key stakeholders in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth. Since 2002, CSOs in Afghanistan have been essential partners in the implementation of EU assistance, e.g.
Remarks on behalf of the European Union delivered by Ambassador Joanne Adamson, Deputy Head of the European Union Delegation to the United Nations, at the Security Council Arria-Formula Open Meeting on “Responding to the Secretary General’s Call to Action on the Risk of Famine in the conflict- affected areas of Yemen, Somalia, South-Sudan and Northeast Nigeria”.
The EU hosted the ASEM Senior Officials' Meeting on 22-23 June in Brussels, which was preceded by the 1st ever meeting of the ASEM Pathfinder Group on Connectivity. Both meetings were chaired by Gunnar Wiegand, Managing Director Asia and Pacific.
