Bernard J. Durkan
Question:151 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of Partnership for Peace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30694/04]
View answerWednesday, 24 November 2004
Questions (151)
Written answers
I refer the Deputy to the reply to his QuestionNo. 135 on 12 February 2004 and Question No. 42 on 24 June 2004.
The basic principles underlying the Partnership for Peace, PfP, as set out in the PfP Framework Document of January 1994, remain unchanged. This document sets out the political purposes of PfP which include: the protection of human rights; the safeguarding of freedom, justice and peace; the promotion of democracy; the maintenance of the principles of international law; and the fulfilment of the obligations of the UNCharter, and of OSCE commitments.
A key aspect of PfP membership, from Ireland's perspective, lies in the core principle of self differentiation, whereby each country participates according to its own interests and priorities. This principle remains at the core of PfP activity.
PfP has proved itself an important framework for co-operation in areas appropriate to the so-called Petersberg Tasks which include humanitarian, peacekeeping, crisis management andrescue activities.
Ireland's ability to make a meaningful contribution to UN authorised missions is undoubtedly enhanced by its participation in Partnership for Peace activities. Ireland's participation in PfP is aimed at improving the interoperability of the Defence Forces so as to continue to play a meaningful and effective role in appropriately sanctioned multinational peacekeeping operations. Through PfP, the Defence Forces acquire necessary training, familiarity with operational procedures and techniques, as well as peacekeeping methodology. These are essential prerequisites in the new style of peacekeeping and crisis management missions mandated by the UN in recent years. This can also be seen by the participation in PfP of all our EU partners, including the other neutral and non-aligned states.