Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:41 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the EU security strategy proposed by EU High Representative Javier Solana, and its implications for Irish defence policy. [25390/03]
Written Answers. - Common Foreign and Security Policy.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 281 of 4 November 2003.
Proposals for a draft strategy were initially presented by High Representative Solana at the Thessaloniki European Council on 19 and 20 June. The proposals were welcomed, and the High Representative was tasked by the European Council to bring work forward with a view to submitting a text for approval at the December European Council in Brussels. Following detailed discussion of the proposals in a series of seminars, a revised draft of the strategy will be presented to Foreign Ministers at next week's Council on General Affairs and External Relations Council. The strategy will then be due for adoption at the level of heads of state and government in December.
As drafted to date, High Representative Solana's proposals are broadly consistent with Ireland's perspective on security and defence issues. We have particularly welcomed the emphasis on a holistic approach to security, going beyond purely military considerations. By helping to place the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy in a wider perspective, and through assisting with necessary prioritisation and further elaboration of EU foreign policy activities, the security strategy holds the potential to be a very important and worthwhile exercise for the Union. It is encouraging that the centrality of the United Nations and conflict prevention have been highlighted in High Representative Solana's proposals. Ireland participated in the series of seminars, held during the course of September and October, to discuss the draft Strategy. As holders of the EU Presidency next year, the Government stands ready to carry forward work on implementation of the strategy, as appropriate.