D66 wants more effective EU foreign policy

Member of the European Parliament, Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) is disappointed about the lack of ambition shown by the Ministers of the EU member states, who have nominated the inexperienced Federica Mogherini as the new EU foreign policy chief. Schaake: “The EU is facing fires on its eastern flank and in the Middle East, and a strong Europe is needed more than ever. This nomination is a worrying signal at a time when more defence cooperation is necessary, as well as increasing exports and respect for human rights in Europe’s neighbourhood.”

European Parliament
The call for a more effective EU foreign policy has been strong in the past years. “From the liberal faction in the European Parliament I will work together with the new High Representative wherever possible to strengthen the common security and defense policy. Instead of searching for the lowest common denominator between Member States, it is her task to initiate ambitious plans. The situation in the world asks for it. I will follow her critically,” states Schaake. “It’s not likely that Mogherini will not get a majority, since she can count on the support of the governments of the member states.”

Trade
Schaake will specifically ask Mogherini about the relationship between foreign policy and trade. “The crisis in Ukraine, but also the question how we deal with protests in Hong Kong, show us how closely foreign policy and trade interests are tied. For D66 is it important that the EU follows a policy based on values. Trade can help to raise awareness for human rights, but political leadership is needed. Europe has to be more consistent, and take on a more powerful role in the world.”

Picture: CreativeCommons, Mzieglerraschdorf