Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:148 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which he intends to influence European foreign policy, security and defence in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27058/03]
Written Answers. - EU Policies.
The Government is fully committed to the Union's Common and Foreign and Security Policy, CFSP, including the European Security and Defence Policy, ESDP, and, together with our EU partners, plays a full and active role in the formation and implementation of the Union's external relations. The primary forum in which this engagement occurs is the monthly meeting of Foreign Ministers in the General Affairs and External Relations Council at which foreign policy issues are discussed. The Government is also involved on a daily basis in the development and implementation of the Union's foreign policy through participation in EU working groups, senior official meetings and through bilateral contacts with our EU partners and other countries.
As holder of the Presidency in the first half of next year, Ireland will be responsible for driving forward the Union's work in the area of CFSP, and for ensuring the external representation of the Union. This will mean that Ireland will play a central role in developing the Union's policy on issues such as the Middle East Peace Process, Iraq, the Western Balkans, Africa, international terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. In our capacity as President, we will also work to further the objectives of the CFSP which include the promotion of international co-operation, the preservation of international peace and security, the development of and consolidation of democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. These objectives are also the core principles of Ireland's foreign policy.
In the security and defence area, Ireland will seek to facilitate continued development of the EU's capacity to prevent and manage crises. Effective conduct of ongoing ESDP operations will be a central priority, as will planning for any future missions which may arise. Ireland will also seek to develop and strengthen relations between the EU and our international partners, including the United Nations, NATO and third countries, in the area of crisis management.
As President, we will also represent the Union in political dialogue with a wide range of external partners at Summit, Foreign Minister and senior official level. In addition, as a member of the Troika since July, I have participated in EU meetings with a number of third countries. For example, earlier this week I met the African Union and Turkey in Rome and last week I attended the Council of Europe Ministerial meeting in Moldova. These meetings are an important element of the Union's external relations.
As the Deputy is aware, a number of matters relating to foreign policy, security and defence are currently under consideration at the Intergovernmental Conference. Together with partners, the Government is fully engaged in discussions on these important issues with a view to ensuring an outcome that will enable the EU to play a greater role in support of international peace and security consistent with the values and traditions of the member states.
Question No. 149 answered with Question No. 11.