BETA


2013/2149(INI) Assessing and setting priorities for EU relations with the eastern partnership countries

Progress: Procedure completed

RoleCommitteeRapporteurShadows
Lead AFET KOWAL Paweł Robert (icon: ECR ECR) KOVATCHEV Andrey (icon: PPE PPE), FLECKENSTEIN Knut (icon: S&D S&D), VAJGL Ivo (icon: ALDE ALDE), SCHULZ Werner (icon: Verts/ALE Verts/ALE), SCHOLZ Helmut (icon: GUE/NGL GUE/NGL)
Committee Opinion INTA
Lead committee dossier:
Legal Basis:
RoP 52

Events

2014/03/12
   EP - Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading
Details

The European Parliament adopted by 592 votes to 64, with 24 abstentions, a resolution on assessing and setting priorities for EU relations with the Eastern Partnership countries.

Parliament recalled that the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), in particular the Eastern Partnership (EaP), is based on a community of values and on a shared commitment to international law and fundamental values and aims extend, share and promote the values and the principles upon which the EU is founded.

Successive EU enlargements have brought Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine and Belarus closer to the EU and that these countries have deeply rooted European aspirations but are still undergoing difficult transformation processes towards a democratic system, following decades of existence within the USSR.

Against this background, Parliament recalled the purpose of the EaP, which is the strengthening of the political, economic and cultural European integration of the Eastern Partners. It expressed concern at the fact that the EaP as a whole has recently been seriously challenged by third parties . It stressed that a European perspective , including the right to apply for membership under Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union, could constitute a driving force for reforms in these countries and further strengthen their commitment to shared values and principles such as democracy.

To give a new impetus to the Eastern Partnership, the resolution urged the EU to focus particularly on investing in immediate progress for citizens, and in this context to establish visa-free regimes , to support youth and future leaders, and to devote greater attention to the empowerment of civil society.

Vilnius Summit : Parliament believed that the outcome of the Vilnius Summit (November 2013) highlighted the need to enhance the strategic character of the Eastern Partnership. It recommended, therefore, making flexible use of the tools at the EU's disposal, such as macroeconomic assistance, easing of trade regimes, projects to enhance energy security and economic modernisation, and swift implementation of visa liberalisation, in line with European values and interests. It called on the Commission to produce a green paper on the post-Vilnius future of the Eastern Partnership.

Parliament also welcomed, as a positive conclusion of the Vilnius summit, the initialling of the Association Agreements including a DCFTA with the Republic of Moldova and Georgia. However, it regretted that the outcome of the Vilnius summit did not match all expectations, and urged that association agreements be swiftly signed and fully, rapidly and efficiently implemented, where applicable, with the partner countries.

Promoting exchanges, including with young people : Parliament recalled in this connection that visa liberalisation is only one of a number of processes aimed at bringing the societies closer together, and that more efforts are required in this area, particularly with regard to advancing cooperation in the fields of education, science, culture and sport. In parallel, it highlighted the importance of investing in projects for youth and future leaders, by making full use of the scholarship opportunities under the 'Erasmus +' programme to foster student and teacher exchanges between EaP countries and the EU Member States. Members invited the EU to increase its presence in the partner countries using more interactive audiovisual means and social media in the respective local languages in order to reach all of society.

Energy issues : Parliament emphasised that the EU and the Eastern European partners face common political challenges with regard to ensuring a reliable and safe energy supply . It underlined the importance of focusing more on the consolidation, improvement and efficiency of the energy sector, as one of the main conditions for modernisation of the economy , strengthening energy security and competitiveness as well as developing energy strategies in line with European Energy Community obligations and EU targets.

In an amendment adopted in plenary, Parliament recalled that the Energy Community Treaty lays the basis for establishing a fully integrated regional energy market favouring growth, investment and a stable regulatory framework. It considered further progress in the integration of the gas and electricity networks, including reverse-flows, in the region to be essential to achieving the goals of the Energy Community. It also underlined the importance of focusing more on the consolidation, improvement and efficiency of the energy sector, as one of the main conditions for modernisation of the economy, strengthening energy security and competitiveness as well as developing energy strategies in line with European Energy Community obligations and EU targets. It called for the continuation of gas and electricity market reforms and an adequate share of energy from renewable resources, in line with EU policies and standards.

Plenary recognised that Eastern Partnership countries' energy dependence on third countries and inadequate diversification of supply complicate the dynamics of European integration and recalled that projects such as South Stream increase the EU's dependency on Russian gas . Parliament called on the Commission and the Member States to fast-track projects that will help mitigate the situation.

Principle of differentiation : Parliament called for a more tailored approach to individual partner countries, also by better taking into account their specific geopolitical vulnerabilities, implementing the principles of differentiation and ‘ more for more’ but with overall coordination. It is convinced that the depth and scope of relations with each partner country should reflect its own European ambition, commitment to shared values, and progress in aligning with EU legislation, assessed on the basis of clear benchmarks and on its own merits. It stated that the Eastern Partnership architecture must be forward-looking and flexible - institutionally and conceptually – in order to provide long-term incentives for all partners, including the most advanced ones and thus further intensify relations with the EU. It further believed that the EaP should not only focus on normative objectives but also reach the citizens through bottom-up approaches aimed at anchoring the benefits of prospective association to public opinion.

Enhancing multilateralism : Parliament recognised the importance of inclusiveness in ensuring that the Partnership advances with the participation of all six partners. It highlighted therefore, the need to further enhance the multilateral dimension, and encourages the holding of regular meetings at ministerial level across the policy spectrum. It stressed, in this regard, as in the case of Ukraine , the importance of the Council taking immediate action, including increased diplomatic pressure and the introduction of individual targeted measures, travel bans and asset and property freezes directed at officials, legislators and their business sponsors responsible for human rights violations, and of stepping up efforts to stop money laundering and tax evasion by companies and businesspeople of the country concerned in European banks.

Parliament recommended the further strengthening of the multilateral track of the Eastern Partnership in order to foster a climate of cooperation, friendship and good neighbourly relations that will support the objectives of political association and particularly economic integration and the encouragement of multilateral initiatives for cooperation and joint projects, as well as making further progress on cross-border and regional cooperation, especially in areas such as transport, people-to-people contacts, the environment, border security, and energy security. It stated that cooperation should nevertheless continue, where possible, on a bilateral basis between the EU, on the one side, and the partner countries, on the other.

Enlightening citizens about the EaP : Parliament is concerned about the lack of shared understanding of the essence of cooperation between the EU and the EaP countries. It noted with concern that the EU is frequently seen as a donor and partner countries as beneficiaries, while all should perform a double role. It warned that this kind of public perception might create unrealistic expectations among the societies of the Eastern Partners. It also regretted that the Member States often have divergent views and do not take a common position in relations with, and developments in, EaP countries and called for a comprehensive review of the ENP, especially as regards the Eastern Neighbours, in the light of recent events and also in terms of concrete and tangible measures, especially concerning EaP citizens.

Sectoral issues : other sectoral issues were highlighted such as:

easing trade barriers; sharing experiences of democratic reforms, drawing on the rich experience that European countries have in the process of establishing and protecting democratic regimes based on respect for fundamental values and the rule of law; strengthening measures aiming to protect hum rights defenders; frozen conflicts hamper the full development of the EaP and exacerbate hate, animosity and tensions among the peoples of several EaP countries; enhancing the participation and the role of civil society; raising awareness of the complexity of the economic problems, promoting good governance in the financial sector and cooperation with international financial institutions, adopting a sectoral approach, and encouraging legislation conducive to the development of the SME sector; strengthen the business dimension of the Eastern Partnership; promoting joint activities with other strategic partners and cooperation in international and European organisations; the need to promote social and cultural ties and cooperation in the field of research and innovation.

Pressure from Russia : Parliament stated that the countries concerned are still exposed to strong pressure and blackmail by third parties in their sovereign decisions. It recalled that the EaP countries must be free and sovereign so as to fully exercise their right to determine their future without being subjected to undue external pressure, threats or intimidation. For the Parliament, every country has the sovereign right to join any international organisation or alliance and to define its own future without any external influence .

The resolution deplored the continuous pressure exerted on the EaP countries, through economic, political and military tools, by Russia, which perceives the strengthening of relations between the EU and the EaP countries as actions against its own interests . It highlighted the need to address this in talks with Russia, as well as the need for a serious discussion among EU Member States on new ways of constructively engaging Russia in initiatives that reflect common interests in the context of a secure, stable and prosperous European neighbourhood, thus overcoming obsolete and dangerous thinking in terms of spheres of influence. Parliament called on the EU to take concrete measures, including economic assistance, easing of trade regimes, projects to enhance energy security and economic modernisation, in order to support the EaP countries in their European aspirations, and to adopt a common strategy vis-à-vis Russia.

Criticisms of the EaP : Parliament stressed that, while the EaP is being widely criticised, the success of the initiative is dependent on the engagement and political will of both the EU and its Eastern neighbours. Furthermore, it noted that it is essential that any criticism of the EaP should be constructive in character and should be targeted on improving it rather than discrediting it.

In a recital, Parliament stressed the need for a real political will which has proven an insufficient driver of change and reforms. Recent developments in the EaP countries, as well as the outcome of the Vilnius Summit, highlighted the need to strengthen the strategic character of the Eastern Partnership and to make increased efforts to promote and increase awareness of the mutual benefits of the Association Agreements .

Documents
2014/03/12
   EP - End of procedure in Parliament
2014/03/10
   EP - Debate in Parliament
2014/03/05
   EP - Committee report tabled for plenary, single reading
Details

The Committee on Foreign Affairs adopted the own-initiative report by Paweł Robert KOWAL (ECR, PL) on assessing and setting priorities for EU relations with the Eastern Partnership countries.

Members recalled that the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), in particular the Eastern Partnership (EaP), is based on a community of values and on a shared commitment to international law and fundamental values and aims extend, share and promote the values and the principles upon which the EU is founded.

Successive EU enlargements have brought Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine and Belarus closer to the EU and that these countries have deeply rooted European aspirations but are still undergoing difficult transformation processes towards a democratic system, following decades of existence within the USSR.

Against this background, Members recalled the purpose of the EaP, which is the strengthening of the political, economic and cultural European integration of the Eastern Partners. They expressed concern at the fact that the EaP as a whole has recently been seriously challenged by third parties . They stressed that a European perspective , including the right to apply for membership under Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union, could constitute a driving force for reforms in these countries and further strengthen their commitment to shared values and principles such as democracy.

To give a new impetus to the Eastern Partnership, Members urged the EU to focus particularly on investing in immediate progress for citizens, and in this context to establish visa-free regimes , to support youth and future leaders, and to devote greater attention to the empowerment of civil society.

Vilnius Summit : Members believed that the outcome of the Vilnius Summit (November 2013) highlighted the need to enhance the strategic character of the Eastern Partnership. They recommended, therefore, making flexible use of the tools at the EU's disposal, such as macroeconomic assistance, easing of trade regimes, projects to enhance energy security and economic modernisation, and swift implementation of visa liberalisation, in line with European values and interests. They called on the Commission to produce a green paper on the post-Vilnius future of the Eastern Partnership.

Members welcomed, as a positive conclusion of the Vilnius summit, the initialling of the Association Agreements including a DCFTA with the Republic of Moldova and Georgia. They regretted, however, that the outcome of the Vilnius summit did not match all expectations, and urged that association agreements be swiftly signed and fully, rapidly and efficiently implemented, where applicable, with the partner countries.

Promoting exchanges, including with young people : Members noted in this connection that visa liberalisation is only one of a number of processes aimed at bringing the societies closer together, and that more efforts are required in this area, particularly with regard to advancing cooperation in the fields of education, science, culture and sport. In parallel, it highlighted the importance of investing in projects for youth and future leaders, by making full use of the scholarship opportunities under the 'Erasmus +' programme to foster student and teacher exchanges between EaP countries and the EU Member States. They invited the EU to increase its presence in the partner countries using more interactive audiovisual means and social media in the respective local languages in order to reach all of society.

Energy issues : Members emphasised that the EU and the Eastern European partners face common political challenges with regard to ensuring a reliable and safe energy supply . They underlined the importance of focusing more on the consolidation, improvement and efficiency of the energy sector, as one of the main conditions for modernisation of the economy , strengthening energy security and competitiveness as well as developing energy strategies in line with European Energy Community obligations and EU targets. Members called for the continuation of gas and electricity market reforms and an adequate share of energy from renewable resources . They recognised that Eastern Partnership countries' energy dependence on third countries and inadequate diversification of supply complicate the dynamics of European integration, and called on the Commission and the Member States to fast-track projects that will help mitigate the situation. They also called on the Commission and Council to make solidarity a fundamental principle of the Energy Community that is expected to be fully respected by all the players active in the EU market.

Principle of differentiation : Members called for a more tailored approach to individual partner countries, also by better taking into account their specific geopolitical vulnerabilities, implementing the principles of differentiation and ‘more for more’ but with overall coordination. They are convinced that the depth and scope of relations with each partner country should reflect its own European ambition, commitment to shared values, and progress in aligning with EU legislation, assessed on the basis of clear benchmarks and on its own merits. They stated that the Eastern Partnership architecture must be forward-looking and flexible - institutionally and conceptually – in order to provide long-term incentives for all partners, including the most advanced ones and thus further intensify relations with the EU. They further believed that the EaP should not only focus on normative objectives but also reach the citizens through bottom-up approaches aimed at anchoring the benefits of prospective association to public opinion.

Enlightening citizens about the EaP : Members are concerned about the lack of shared understanding of the essence of cooperation between the EU and the EaP countries. They noted with concern that the EU is frequently seen as a donor and partner countries as beneficiaries, while all should perform a double role. They warned that this kind of public perception might create unrealistic expectations among the societies of the Eastern Partners. They regretted that the Member States often have divergent views and do not take a common position in relations with, and developments in, EaP countries and called for a comprehensive review of the ENP, especially as regards the Eastern Neighbours, in the light of recent events and also in terms of concrete and tangible measures, especially concerning EaP citizens.

Sectoral issues : other sectoral issues were highlighted such as:

easing trade barriers; introducing individual targeted measures, travel bans and asset and property freezes directed at officials, legislators and their business sponsors responsible for human rights violations, sharing experiences of democratic reforms, drawing on the rich experience that European countries have in the process of establishing and protecting democratic regimes based on respect for fundamental values and the rule of law; strengthening measures aiming to protect human rights defenders; frozen conflicts hamper the full development of the EaP and exacerbate hate, animosity and tensions among the peoples of several EaP countries; enhancing the participation and the role of civil society; raising awareness of the complexity of the economic problems, promoting good governance in the financial sector and cooperation with international financial institutions, adopting a sectoral approach, and encouraging legislation conducive to the development of the SME sector; strengthen the business dimension of the Eastern Partnership; promoting joint activities with other strategic partners and cooperation in international and European organisations; the need to promote social and cultural ties and cooperation in the field of research and innovation.

Pressure from Russia : Members deplored the continuous pressure exerted on the EaP countries, through economic, political and military tools, by Russia, which perceives the strengthening of relations between the EU and the EaP countries as actions against its own interests . They highlighted the need to address this in talks with Russia, as well as the need for a serious discussion among EU Member States on new ways of constructively engaging Russia in initiatives that reflect common interests in the context of a secure, stable and prosperous European neighbourhood, thus overcoming obsolete and dangerous thinking in terms of spheres of influence. The report called on the EU to take concrete measures, including economic assistance, easing of trade regimes, projects to enhance energy security and economic modernisation, in order to support the EaP countries in their European aspirations, and to adopt a

common strategy vis-à-vis Russia.

Lastly, Members stressed that while the EaP is being widely criticised, the success of the initiative is dependent on the engagement and political will of both the EU and its Eastern neighbours. It noted, further, that it is essential that any criticism of the EaP should be constructive in character and should be targeted on improving it rather than discrediting it.

Documents
2014/03/03
   EP - Vote in committee, 1st reading/single reading
2014/02/12
   EP - Amendments tabled in committee
Documents
2014/01/09
   EP - Amendments tabled in committee
Documents
2013/12/06
   EP - Committee draft report
Documents
2013/11/18
   CSL - Debate in Council
Documents
2013/11/18
   CSL - Council Meeting
2013/09/12
   EP - Committee referral announced in Parliament, 1st reading/single reading
2013/01/16
   EP - KOWAL Paweł Robert (ECR) appointed as rapporteur in AFET

Documents

Votes

A7-0157/2014 - Paweł Robert Kowal - Résolution #

2014/03/12 Outcome: +: 592, -: 64, 0: 24
DE ES FR GB PL IT RO HU SE BG BE EL CZ PT HR NL SK IE FI AT LT SI LU DK EE LV MT CY
Total
92
49
63
70
41
57
28
20
19
17
18
17
19
21
12
25
13
12
11
19
10
7
6
8
6
9
4
6
icon: PPE PPE
235

Czechia PPE

1

Luxembourg PPE

3

Denmark PPE

For (1)

1

Estonia PPE

For (1)

1

Malta PPE

For (1)

1

Cyprus PPE

Against (1)

2
icon: S&D S&D
174

Bulgaria S&D

Abstain (1)

4

Netherlands S&D

3

Ireland S&D

2

Finland S&D

2

Slovenia S&D

For (1)

1

Luxembourg S&D

For (1)

1

Estonia S&D

For (1)

1

Latvia S&D

Against (1)

1
icon: ALDE ALDE
77

Greece ALDE

1

Slovakia ALDE

For (1)

1

Austria ALDE

Abstain (1)

1

Slovenia ALDE

2

Luxembourg ALDE

For (1)

1

Denmark ALDE

2

Latvia ALDE

For (1)

1
icon: Verts/ALE Verts/ALE
54

United Kingdom Verts/ALE

5

Belgium Verts/ALE

3

Greece Verts/ALE

1

Portugal Verts/ALE

For (1)

1

Netherlands Verts/ALE

3

Finland Verts/ALE

2

Austria Verts/ALE

2

Luxembourg Verts/ALE

For (1)

1

Denmark Verts/ALE

For (1)

1

Estonia Verts/ALE

For (1)

1

Latvia Verts/ALE

1
icon: ECR ECR
50

Italy ECR

1

Hungary ECR

For (1)

1

Belgium ECR

For (1)

1

Croatia ECR

For (1)

1

Netherlands ECR

For (1)

1

Lithuania ECR

1

Latvia ECR

For (1)

1
icon: EFD EFD
25

Bulgaria EFD

For (1)

1

Belgium EFD

For (1)

1

Greece EFD

1

Netherlands EFD

For (1)

1

Slovakia EFD

Abstain (1)

1

Finland EFD

Abstain (1)

1

Lithuania EFD

2
icon: NI NI
31

Spain NI

1

Italy NI

For (1)

Against (1)

2

Bulgaria NI

1

Belgium NI

Against (1)

1

Ireland NI

For (1)

1
icon: GUE/NGL GUE/NGL
33

Spain GUE/NGL

Against (1)

1

United Kingdom GUE/NGL

Against (1)

1

Sweden GUE/NGL

Against (1)

1

Greece GUE/NGL

2

Czechia GUE/NGL

Against (1)

4
4

Croatia GUE/NGL

1

Netherlands GUE/NGL

2

Ireland GUE/NGL

Against (1)

1

Denmark GUE/NGL

Against (1)

1

Latvia GUE/NGL

Against (1)

1

Cyprus GUE/NGL

2
AmendmentsDossier
281 2013/2149(INI)
2014/01/09 AFET 237 amendments...
source: PE-526.268
2014/02/12 AFET 44 amendments...
source: PE-529.713

History

(these mark the time of scraping, not the official date of the change)

committees/0/shadows/4
name
SCHOLZ Helmut
group
European United Left - Nordic Green Left
abbr
GUE/NGL
docs/0/docs/0/url
Old
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=COMPARL&mode=XML&language=EN&reference=PE524.575
New
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/AFET-PR-524575_EN.html
docs/1/docs/0/url
Old
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=COMPARL&mode=XML&language=EN&reference=PE526.268
New
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/AFET-AM-526268_EN.html
docs/2/docs/0/url
Old
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=COMPARL&mode=XML&language=EN&reference=PE529.713
New
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/AFET-AM-529713_EN.html
events/0/type
Old
Committee referral announced in Parliament, 1st reading/single reading
New
Committee referral announced in Parliament
events/2/type
Old
Vote in committee, 1st reading/single reading
New
Vote in committee
events/3
date
2014-03-05T00:00:00
type
Committee report tabled for plenary
body
EP
docs
url: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/A-7-2014-0157_EN.html title: A7-0157/2014
summary
events/3
date
2014-03-05T00:00:00
type
Committee report tabled for plenary, single reading
body
EP
docs
url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/A-7-2014-0157_EN.html title: A7-0157/2014
summary
events/4/docs
  • url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?secondRef=TOC&language=EN&reference=20140310&type=CRE title: Debate in Parliament
events/5
date
2014-03-12T00:00:00
type
Decision by Parliament
body
EP
docs
url: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-7-2014-0229_EN.html title: T7-0229/2014
summary
events/5
date
2014-03-12T00:00:00
type
Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading
body
EP
docs
url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-7-2014-0229_EN.html title: T7-0229/2014
summary
procedure/Modified legal basis
Rules of Procedure EP 150
procedure/Other legal basis
Rules of Procedure EP 159
procedure/legal_basis/0
Rules of Procedure EP 54
procedure/legal_basis/0
Rules of Procedure EP 52
committees/0
type
Responsible Committee
body
EP
associated
False
committee_full
Foreign Affairs
committee
AFET
rapporteur
name: KOWAL Paweł Robert date: 2013-01-16T00:00:00 group: European Conservatives and Reformists abbr: ECR
shadows
committees/0
type
Responsible Committee
body
EP
associated
False
committee_full
Foreign Affairs
committee
AFET
date
2013-01-16T00:00:00
rapporteur
name: KOWAL Paweł Robert group: European Conservatives and Reformists abbr: ECR
shadows
events/3/docs/0/url
Old
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=REPORT&mode=XML&reference=A7-2014-0157&language=EN
New
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/A-7-2014-0157_EN.html
events/5/docs/0/url
Old
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=TA&language=EN&reference=P7-TA-2014-0229
New
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-7-2014-0229_EN.html
activities
  • date: 2013-09-12T00:00:00 body: EP type: Committee referral announced in Parliament, 1st reading/single reading committees: body: EP shadows: group: PPE name: KOVATCHEV Andrey group: S&D name: FLECKENSTEIN Knut group: ALDE name: VAJGL Ivo group: Verts/ALE name: SCHULZ Werner group: GUE/NGL name: SCHOLZ Helmut responsible: True committee: AFET date: 2013-01-16T00:00:00 committee_full: Foreign Affairs rapporteur: group: ECR name: KOWAL Paweł Robert body: EP responsible: False committee_full: International Trade committee: INTA
  • body: CSL meeting_id: 3273 docs: url: http://register.consilium.europa.eu/content/out?lang=EN&typ=SET&i=SMPL&ROWSPP=25&RESULTSET=1&NRROWS=500&DOC_LANCD=EN&ORDERBY=DOC_DATE+DESC&CONTENTS=3273*&MEET_DATE=18/11/2013 type: Debate in Council title: 3273 council: Foreign Affairs date: 2013-11-18T00:00:00 type: Council Meeting
  • date: 2014-03-03T00:00:00 body: EP type: Vote in committee, 1st reading/single reading committees: body: EP shadows: group: PPE name: KOVATCHEV Andrey group: S&D name: FLECKENSTEIN Knut group: ALDE name: VAJGL Ivo group: Verts/ALE name: SCHULZ Werner group: GUE/NGL name: SCHOLZ Helmut responsible: True committee: AFET date: 2013-01-16T00:00:00 committee_full: Foreign Affairs rapporteur: group: ECR name: KOWAL Paweł Robert body: EP responsible: False committee_full: International Trade committee: INTA
  • date: 2014-03-05T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=REPORT&mode=XML&reference=A7-2014-0157&language=EN type: Committee report tabled for plenary, single reading title: A7-0157/2014 body: EP type: Committee report tabled for plenary, single reading
  • date: 2014-03-10T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?secondRef=TOC&language=EN&reference=20140310&type=CRE type: Debate in Parliament title: Debate in Parliament body: EP type: Debate in Parliament
  • date: 2014-03-12T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=TA&language=EN&reference=P7-TA-2014-0229 type: Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading title: T7-0229/2014 body: EP type: Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading
committees/0
type
Responsible Committee
body
EP
associated
False
committee_full
Foreign Affairs
committee
AFET
date
2013-01-16T00:00:00
rapporteur
name: KOWAL Paweł Robert group: European Conservatives and Reformists abbr: ECR
shadows
committees/0
body
EP
shadows
responsible
True
committee
AFET
date
2013-01-16T00:00:00
committee_full
Foreign Affairs
rapporteur
group: ECR name: KOWAL Paweł Robert
committees/1
type
Committee Opinion
body
EP
associated
False
committee_full
International Trade
committee
INTA
opinion
False
committees/1
body
EP
responsible
False
committee_full
International Trade
committee
INTA
council
  • body: CSL type: Council Meeting council: Foreign Affairs meeting_id: 3273 url: http://register.consilium.europa.eu/content/out?lang=EN&typ=SET&i=SMPL&ROWSPP=25&RESULTSET=1&NRROWS=500&DOC_LANCD=EN&ORDERBY=DOC_DATE+DESC&CONTENTS=3273*&MEET_DATE=18/11/2013 date: 2013-11-18T00:00:00
docs
  • date: 2013-12-06T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=COMPARL&mode=XML&language=EN&reference=PE524.575 title: PE524.575 type: Committee draft report body: EP
  • date: 2014-01-09T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=COMPARL&mode=XML&language=EN&reference=PE526.268 title: PE526.268 type: Amendments tabled in committee body: EP
  • date: 2014-02-12T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=COMPARL&mode=XML&language=EN&reference=PE529.713 title: PE529.713 type: Amendments tabled in committee body: EP
events
  • date: 2013-09-12T00:00:00 type: Committee referral announced in Parliament, 1st reading/single reading body: EP
  • date: 2013-11-18T00:00:00 type: Debate in Council body: CSL docs: url: http://register.consilium.europa.eu/content/out?lang=EN&typ=SET&i=SMPL&ROWSPP=25&RESULTSET=1&NRROWS=500&DOC_LANCD=EN&ORDERBY=DOC_DATE+DESC&CONTENTS=3273*&MEET_DATE=18/11/2013 title: 3273
  • date: 2014-03-03T00:00:00 type: Vote in committee, 1st reading/single reading body: EP
  • date: 2014-03-05T00:00:00 type: Committee report tabled for plenary, single reading body: EP docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=REPORT&mode=XML&reference=A7-2014-0157&language=EN title: A7-0157/2014 summary: The Committee on Foreign Affairs adopted the own-initiative report by Paweł Robert KOWAL (ECR, PL) on assessing and setting priorities for EU relations with the Eastern Partnership countries. Members recalled that the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), in particular the Eastern Partnership (EaP), is based on a community of values and on a shared commitment to international law and fundamental values and aims extend, share and promote the values and the principles upon which the EU is founded. Successive EU enlargements have brought Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine and Belarus closer to the EU and that these countries have deeply rooted European aspirations but are still undergoing difficult transformation processes towards a democratic system, following decades of existence within the USSR. Against this background, Members recalled the purpose of the EaP, which is the strengthening of the political, economic and cultural European integration of the Eastern Partners. They expressed concern at the fact that the EaP as a whole has recently been seriously challenged by third parties . They stressed that a European perspective , including the right to apply for membership under Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union, could constitute a driving force for reforms in these countries and further strengthen their commitment to shared values and principles such as democracy. To give a new impetus to the Eastern Partnership, Members urged the EU to focus particularly on investing in immediate progress for citizens, and in this context to establish visa-free regimes , to support youth and future leaders, and to devote greater attention to the empowerment of civil society. Vilnius Summit : Members believed that the outcome of the Vilnius Summit (November 2013) highlighted the need to enhance the strategic character of the Eastern Partnership. They recommended, therefore, making flexible use of the tools at the EU's disposal, such as macroeconomic assistance, easing of trade regimes, projects to enhance energy security and economic modernisation, and swift implementation of visa liberalisation, in line with European values and interests. They called on the Commission to produce a green paper on the post-Vilnius future of the Eastern Partnership. Members welcomed, as a positive conclusion of the Vilnius summit, the initialling of the Association Agreements including a DCFTA with the Republic of Moldova and Georgia. They regretted, however, that the outcome of the Vilnius summit did not match all expectations, and urged that association agreements be swiftly signed and fully, rapidly and efficiently implemented, where applicable, with the partner countries. Promoting exchanges, including with young people : Members noted in this connection that visa liberalisation is only one of a number of processes aimed at bringing the societies closer together, and that more efforts are required in this area, particularly with regard to advancing cooperation in the fields of education, science, culture and sport. In parallel, it highlighted the importance of investing in projects for youth and future leaders, by making full use of the scholarship opportunities under the 'Erasmus +' programme to foster student and teacher exchanges between EaP countries and the EU Member States. They invited the EU to increase its presence in the partner countries using more interactive audiovisual means and social media in the respective local languages in order to reach all of society. Energy issues : Members emphasised that the EU and the Eastern European partners face common political challenges with regard to ensuring a reliable and safe energy supply . They underlined the importance of focusing more on the consolidation, improvement and efficiency of the energy sector, as one of the main conditions for modernisation of the economy , strengthening energy security and competitiveness as well as developing energy strategies in line with European Energy Community obligations and EU targets. Members called for the continuation of gas and electricity market reforms and an adequate share of energy from renewable resources . They recognised that Eastern Partnership countries' energy dependence on third countries and inadequate diversification of supply complicate the dynamics of European integration, and called on the Commission and the Member States to fast-track projects that will help mitigate the situation. They also called on the Commission and Council to make solidarity a fundamental principle of the Energy Community that is expected to be fully respected by all the players active in the EU market. Principle of differentiation : Members called for a more tailored approach to individual partner countries, also by better taking into account their specific geopolitical vulnerabilities, implementing the principles of differentiation and ‘more for more’ but with overall coordination. They are convinced that the depth and scope of relations with each partner country should reflect its own European ambition, commitment to shared values, and progress in aligning with EU legislation, assessed on the basis of clear benchmarks and on its own merits. They stated that the Eastern Partnership architecture must be forward-looking and flexible - institutionally and conceptually – in order to provide long-term incentives for all partners, including the most advanced ones and thus further intensify relations with the EU. They further believed that the EaP should not only focus on normative objectives but also reach the citizens through bottom-up approaches aimed at anchoring the benefits of prospective association to public opinion. Enlightening citizens about the EaP : Members are concerned about the lack of shared understanding of the essence of cooperation between the EU and the EaP countries. They noted with concern that the EU is frequently seen as a donor and partner countries as beneficiaries, while all should perform a double role. They warned that this kind of public perception might create unrealistic expectations among the societies of the Eastern Partners. They regretted that the Member States often have divergent views and do not take a common position in relations with, and developments in, EaP countries and called for a comprehensive review of the ENP, especially as regards the Eastern Neighbours, in the light of recent events and also in terms of concrete and tangible measures, especially concerning EaP citizens. Sectoral issues : other sectoral issues were highlighted such as: easing trade barriers; introducing individual targeted measures, travel bans and asset and property freezes directed at officials, legislators and their business sponsors responsible for human rights violations, sharing experiences of democratic reforms, drawing on the rich experience that European countries have in the process of establishing and protecting democratic regimes based on respect for fundamental values and the rule of law; strengthening measures aiming to protect human rights defenders; frozen conflicts hamper the full development of the EaP and exacerbate hate, animosity and tensions among the peoples of several EaP countries; enhancing the participation and the role of civil society; raising awareness of the complexity of the economic problems, promoting good governance in the financial sector and cooperation with international financial institutions, adopting a sectoral approach, and encouraging legislation conducive to the development of the SME sector; strengthen the business dimension of the Eastern Partnership; promoting joint activities with other strategic partners and cooperation in international and European organisations; the need to promote social and cultural ties and cooperation in the field of research and innovation. Pressure from Russia : Members deplored the continuous pressure exerted on the EaP countries, through economic, political and military tools, by Russia, which perceives the strengthening of relations between the EU and the EaP countries as actions against its own interests . They highlighted the need to address this in talks with Russia, as well as the need for a serious discussion among EU Member States on new ways of constructively engaging Russia in initiatives that reflect common interests in the context of a secure, stable and prosperous European neighbourhood, thus overcoming obsolete and dangerous thinking in terms of spheres of influence. The report called on the EU to take concrete measures, including economic assistance, easing of trade regimes, projects to enhance energy security and economic modernisation, in order to support the EaP countries in their European aspirations, and to adopt a common strategy vis-à-vis Russia. Lastly, Members stressed that while the EaP is being widely criticised, the success of the initiative is dependent on the engagement and political will of both the EU and its Eastern neighbours. It noted, further, that it is essential that any criticism of the EaP should be constructive in character and should be targeted on improving it rather than discrediting it.
  • date: 2014-03-10T00:00:00 type: Debate in Parliament body: EP docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?secondRef=TOC&language=EN&reference=20140310&type=CRE title: Debate in Parliament
  • date: 2014-03-12T00:00:00 type: Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading body: EP docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=TA&language=EN&reference=P7-TA-2014-0229 title: T7-0229/2014 summary: The European Parliament adopted by 592 votes to 64, with 24 abstentions, a resolution on assessing and setting priorities for EU relations with the Eastern Partnership countries. Parliament recalled that the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), in particular the Eastern Partnership (EaP), is based on a community of values and on a shared commitment to international law and fundamental values and aims extend, share and promote the values and the principles upon which the EU is founded. Successive EU enlargements have brought Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine and Belarus closer to the EU and that these countries have deeply rooted European aspirations but are still undergoing difficult transformation processes towards a democratic system, following decades of existence within the USSR. Against this background, Parliament recalled the purpose of the EaP, which is the strengthening of the political, economic and cultural European integration of the Eastern Partners. It expressed concern at the fact that the EaP as a whole has recently been seriously challenged by third parties . It stressed that a European perspective , including the right to apply for membership under Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union, could constitute a driving force for reforms in these countries and further strengthen their commitment to shared values and principles such as democracy. To give a new impetus to the Eastern Partnership, the resolution urged the EU to focus particularly on investing in immediate progress for citizens, and in this context to establish visa-free regimes , to support youth and future leaders, and to devote greater attention to the empowerment of civil society. Vilnius Summit : Parliament believed that the outcome of the Vilnius Summit (November 2013) highlighted the need to enhance the strategic character of the Eastern Partnership. It recommended, therefore, making flexible use of the tools at the EU's disposal, such as macroeconomic assistance, easing of trade regimes, projects to enhance energy security and economic modernisation, and swift implementation of visa liberalisation, in line with European values and interests. It called on the Commission to produce a green paper on the post-Vilnius future of the Eastern Partnership. Parliament also welcomed, as a positive conclusion of the Vilnius summit, the initialling of the Association Agreements including a DCFTA with the Republic of Moldova and Georgia. However, it regretted that the outcome of the Vilnius summit did not match all expectations, and urged that association agreements be swiftly signed and fully, rapidly and efficiently implemented, where applicable, with the partner countries. Promoting exchanges, including with young people : Parliament recalled in this connection that visa liberalisation is only one of a number of processes aimed at bringing the societies closer together, and that more efforts are required in this area, particularly with regard to advancing cooperation in the fields of education, science, culture and sport. In parallel, it highlighted the importance of investing in projects for youth and future leaders, by making full use of the scholarship opportunities under the 'Erasmus +' programme to foster student and teacher exchanges between EaP countries and the EU Member States. Members invited the EU to increase its presence in the partner countries using more interactive audiovisual means and social media in the respective local languages in order to reach all of society. Energy issues : Parliament emphasised that the EU and the Eastern European partners face common political challenges with regard to ensuring a reliable and safe energy supply . It underlined the importance of focusing more on the consolidation, improvement and efficiency of the energy sector, as one of the main conditions for modernisation of the economy , strengthening energy security and competitiveness as well as developing energy strategies in line with European Energy Community obligations and EU targets. In an amendment adopted in plenary, Parliament recalled that the Energy Community Treaty lays the basis for establishing a fully integrated regional energy market favouring growth, investment and a stable regulatory framework. It considered further progress in the integration of the gas and electricity networks, including reverse-flows, in the region to be essential to achieving the goals of the Energy Community. It also underlined the importance of focusing more on the consolidation, improvement and efficiency of the energy sector, as one of the main conditions for modernisation of the economy, strengthening energy security and competitiveness as well as developing energy strategies in line with European Energy Community obligations and EU targets. It called for the continuation of gas and electricity market reforms and an adequate share of energy from renewable resources, in line with EU policies and standards. Plenary recognised that Eastern Partnership countries' energy dependence on third countries and inadequate diversification of supply complicate the dynamics of European integration and recalled that projects such as South Stream increase the EU's dependency on Russian gas . Parliament called on the Commission and the Member States to fast-track projects that will help mitigate the situation. Principle of differentiation : Parliament called for a more tailored approach to individual partner countries, also by better taking into account their specific geopolitical vulnerabilities, implementing the principles of differentiation and ‘ more for more’ but with overall coordination. It is convinced that the depth and scope of relations with each partner country should reflect its own European ambition, commitment to shared values, and progress in aligning with EU legislation, assessed on the basis of clear benchmarks and on its own merits. It stated that the Eastern Partnership architecture must be forward-looking and flexible - institutionally and conceptually – in order to provide long-term incentives for all partners, including the most advanced ones and thus further intensify relations with the EU. It further believed that the EaP should not only focus on normative objectives but also reach the citizens through bottom-up approaches aimed at anchoring the benefits of prospective association to public opinion. Enhancing multilateralism : Parliament recognised the importance of inclusiveness in ensuring that the Partnership advances with the participation of all six partners. It highlighted therefore, the need to further enhance the multilateral dimension, and encourages the holding of regular meetings at ministerial level across the policy spectrum. It stressed, in this regard, as in the case of Ukraine , the importance of the Council taking immediate action, including increased diplomatic pressure and the introduction of individual targeted measures, travel bans and asset and property freezes directed at officials, legislators and their business sponsors responsible for human rights violations, and of stepping up efforts to stop money laundering and tax evasion by companies and businesspeople of the country concerned in European banks. Parliament recommended the further strengthening of the multilateral track of the Eastern Partnership in order to foster a climate of cooperation, friendship and good neighbourly relations that will support the objectives of political association and particularly economic integration and the encouragement of multilateral initiatives for cooperation and joint projects, as well as making further progress on cross-border and regional cooperation, especially in areas such as transport, people-to-people contacts, the environment, border security, and energy security. It stated that cooperation should nevertheless continue, where possible, on a bilateral basis between the EU, on the one side, and the partner countries, on the other. Enlightening citizens about the EaP : Parliament is concerned about the lack of shared understanding of the essence of cooperation between the EU and the EaP countries. It noted with concern that the EU is frequently seen as a donor and partner countries as beneficiaries, while all should perform a double role. It warned that this kind of public perception might create unrealistic expectations among the societies of the Eastern Partners. It also regretted that the Member States often have divergent views and do not take a common position in relations with, and developments in, EaP countries and called for a comprehensive review of the ENP, especially as regards the Eastern Neighbours, in the light of recent events and also in terms of concrete and tangible measures, especially concerning EaP citizens. Sectoral issues : other sectoral issues were highlighted such as: easing trade barriers; sharing experiences of democratic reforms, drawing on the rich experience that European countries have in the process of establishing and protecting democratic regimes based on respect for fundamental values and the rule of law; strengthening measures aiming to protect hum rights defenders; frozen conflicts hamper the full development of the EaP and exacerbate hate, animosity and tensions among the peoples of several EaP countries; enhancing the participation and the role of civil society; raising awareness of the complexity of the economic problems, promoting good governance in the financial sector and cooperation with international financial institutions, adopting a sectoral approach, and encouraging legislation conducive to the development of the SME sector; strengthen the business dimension of the Eastern Partnership; promoting joint activities with other strategic partners and cooperation in international and European organisations; the need to promote social and cultural ties and cooperation in the field of research and innovation. Pressure from Russia : Parliament stated that the countries concerned are still exposed to strong pressure and blackmail by third parties in their sovereign decisions. It recalled that the EaP countries must be free and sovereign so as to fully exercise their right to determine their future without being subjected to undue external pressure, threats or intimidation. For the Parliament, every country has the sovereign right to join any international organisation or alliance and to define its own future without any external influence . The resolution deplored the continuous pressure exerted on the EaP countries, through economic, political and military tools, by Russia, which perceives the strengthening of relations between the EU and the EaP countries as actions against its own interests . It highlighted the need to address this in talks with Russia, as well as the need for a serious discussion among EU Member States on new ways of constructively engaging Russia in initiatives that reflect common interests in the context of a secure, stable and prosperous European neighbourhood, thus overcoming obsolete and dangerous thinking in terms of spheres of influence. Parliament called on the EU to take concrete measures, including economic assistance, easing of trade regimes, projects to enhance energy security and economic modernisation, in order to support the EaP countries in their European aspirations, and to adopt a common strategy vis-à-vis Russia. Criticisms of the EaP : Parliament stressed that, while the EaP is being widely criticised, the success of the initiative is dependent on the engagement and political will of both the EU and its Eastern neighbours. Furthermore, it noted that it is essential that any criticism of the EaP should be constructive in character and should be targeted on improving it rather than discrediting it. In a recital, Parliament stressed the need for a real political will which has proven an insufficient driver of change and reforms. Recent developments in the EaP countries, as well as the outcome of the Vilnius Summit, highlighted the need to strengthen the strategic character of the Eastern Partnership and to make increased efforts to promote and increase awareness of the mutual benefits of the Association Agreements .
  • date: 2014-03-12T00:00:00 type: End of procedure in Parliament body: EP
links
other
    procedure/Modified legal basis
    Old
    Rules of Procedure of the European Parliament EP 150
    New
    Rules of Procedure EP 150
    procedure/dossier_of_the_committee
    Old
    AFET/7/13300
    New
    • AFET/7/13300
    procedure/geographical_area/1
    Moldova, Republic
    procedure/geographical_area/2
    Moldova
    procedure/legal_basis/0
    Rules of Procedure EP 52
    procedure/legal_basis/0
    Rules of Procedure of the European Parliament EP 052
    procedure/subject
    Old
    • 6.40.15 European neighbourhood policy
    New
    6.40.15
    European neighbourhood policy
    procedure/title
    Old
    Assessing and setting priorities for EU relations with the Eastern partnership countries
    New
    Assessing and setting priorities for EU relations with the eastern partnership countries
    activities/0/committees/0/rapporteur/0/mepref
    Old
    4de1860a0fb8127435bdbfd1
    New
    4f1ad20ab819f27595000000
    activities/0/committees/0/shadows/0/group
    Old
    EPP
    New
    PPE
    activities/0/committees/0/shadows/0/mepref
    Old
    4de1860a0fb8127435bdbfd0
    New
    4f1ac463b819f2589600000d
    activities/0/committees/0/shadows/1/mepref
    Old
    4de184c40fb8127435bdbe06
    New
    4f1ac807b819f25efd0000c2
    activities/0/committees/0/shadows/2/mepref
    Old
    4de1893c0fb8127435bdc459
    New
    4f1adc3eb819f207b300010b
    activities/0/committees/0/shadows/3/mepref
    Old
    4de1889f0fb8127435bdc387
    New
    4f1adb3cb819f207b30000b3
    activities/0/committees/0/shadows/4/mepref
    Old
    4de1889e0fb8127435bdc386
    New
    4f1adb31b819f207b30000af
    activities/1/docs/0/url
    Old
    http://www.europarl.europa.eu/ http://register.consilium.europa.eu/servlet/driver?page=Result&typ=Simple&cmsid=638&ff_COTE_DOCUMENT=&ff_TITRE=&ff_SOUS_COTE_MATIERE=&fc=REGAISEN&srm=25&md=400&ssf=DATE_DOCUMENT+DESC&single_comparator=%3D&from_date=&to_date=&lang=EN&ff_FT_TEXT=3273&dd_DATE_REUNION=18/11/2013&single_date=18/11/2013
    New
    http://register.consilium.europa.eu/content/out?lang=EN&typ=SET&i=SMPL&ROWSPP=25&RESULTSET=1&NRROWS=500&DOC_LANCD=EN&ORDERBY=DOC_DATE+DESC&CONTENTS=3273*&MEET_DATE=18/11/2013
    activities/2/committees
    • body: EP shadows: group: PPE name: KOVATCHEV Andrey group: S&D name: FLECKENSTEIN Knut group: ALDE name: VAJGL Ivo group: Verts/ALE name: SCHULZ Werner group: GUE/NGL name: SCHOLZ Helmut responsible: True committee: AFET date: 2013-01-16T00:00:00 committee_full: Foreign Affairs rapporteur: group: ECR name: KOWAL Paweł Robert
    • body: EP responsible: False committee_full: International Trade committee: INTA
    activities/2/date
    Old
    2014-03-12T00:00:00
    New
    2014-03-03T00:00:00
    activities/2/docs
    • type: Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading title: T7-0229/2014
    activities/2/type
    Old
    Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading
    New
    Vote in committee, 1st reading/single reading
    activities/3/docs/0/text
    • The Committee on Foreign Affairs adopted the own-initiative report by Paweł Robert KOWAL (ECR, PL) on assessing and setting priorities for EU relations with the Eastern Partnership countries.

      Members recalled that the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), in particular the Eastern Partnership (EaP), is based on a community of values and on a shared commitment to international law and fundamental values and aims extend, share and promote the values and the principles upon which the EU is founded.

      Successive EU enlargements have brought Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine and Belarus closer to the EU and that these countries have deeply rooted European aspirations but are still undergoing difficult transformation processes towards a democratic system, following decades of existence within the USSR.

      Against this background, Members recalled the purpose of the EaP, which is the strengthening of the political, economic and cultural European integration of the Eastern Partners. They expressed concern at the fact that the EaP as a whole has recently been seriously challenged by third parties. They stressed that a European perspective, including the right to apply for membership under Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union, could constitute a driving force for reforms in these countries and further strengthen their commitment to shared values and principles such as democracy.

      To give a new impetus to the Eastern Partnership, Members urged the EU to focus particularly on investing in immediate progress for citizens, and in this context to establish visa-free regimes, to support youth and future leaders, and to devote greater attention to the empowerment of civil society.

      Vilnius Summit: Members believed that the outcome of the Vilnius Summit (November 2013) highlighted the need to enhance the strategic character of the Eastern Partnership. They recommended, therefore, making flexible use of the tools at the EU's disposal, such as macroeconomic assistance, easing of trade regimes, projects to enhance energy security and economic modernisation, and swift implementation of visa liberalisation, in line with European values and interests. They called on the Commission to produce a green paper on the post-Vilnius future of the Eastern Partnership.

      Members welcomed, as a positive conclusion of the Vilnius summit, the initialling of the Association Agreements including a DCFTA with the Republic of Moldova and Georgia. They regretted, however, that the outcome of the Vilnius summit did not match all expectations, and urged that association agreements be swiftly signed and fully, rapidly and efficiently implemented, where applicable, with the partner countries.

      Promoting exchanges, including with young people: Members noted in this connection that visa liberalisation is only one of a number of processes aimed at bringing the societies closer together, and that more efforts are required in this area, particularly with regard to advancing cooperation in the fields of education, science, culture and sport. In parallel, it highlighted the importance of investing in projects for youth and future leaders, by making full use of the scholarship opportunities under the 'Erasmus +' programme to foster student and teacher exchanges between EaP countries and the EU Member States. They invited the EU to increase its presence in the partner countries using more interactive audiovisual means and social media in the respective local languages in order to reach all of society.

      Energy issues: Members emphasised that the EU and the Eastern European partners face common political challenges with regard to ensuring a reliable and safe energy supply. They underlined the importance of focusing more on the consolidation, improvement and efficiency of the energy sector, as one of the main conditions for modernisation of the economy, strengthening energy security and competitiveness as well as developing energy strategies in line with European Energy Community obligations and EU targets. Members called for the continuation of gas and electricity market reforms and an adequate share of energy from renewable resources. They recognised that Eastern Partnership countries' energy dependence on third countries and inadequate diversification of supply complicate the dynamics of European integration, and called on the Commission and the Member States to fast-track projects that will help mitigate the situation. They also called on the Commission and Council to make solidarity a fundamental principle of the Energy Community that is expected to be fully respected by all the players active in the EU market.

      Principle of differentiation: Members called for a more tailored approach to individual partner countries, also by better taking into account their specific geopolitical vulnerabilities, implementing the principles of differentiation and ‘more for more’ but with overall coordination. They are convinced that the depth and scope of relations with each partner country should reflect its own European ambition, commitment to shared values, and progress in aligning with EU legislation, assessed on the basis of clear benchmarks and on its own merits. They stated that the Eastern Partnership architecture must be forward-looking and flexible - institutionally and conceptually – in order to provide long-term incentives for all partners, including the most advanced ones and thus further intensify relations with the EU. They further believed that the EaP should not only focus on normative objectives but also reach the citizens through bottom-up approaches aimed at anchoring the benefits of prospective association to public opinion.

      Enlightening citizens about the EaP: Members are concerned about the lack of shared understanding of the essence of cooperation between the EU and the EaP countries. They noted with concern that the EU is frequently seen as a donor and partner countries as beneficiaries, while all should perform a double role. They warned that this kind of public perception might create unrealistic expectations among the societies of the Eastern Partners. They regretted that the Member States often have divergent views and do not take a common position in relations with, and developments in, EaP countries and called for a comprehensive review of the ENP, especially as regards the Eastern Neighbours, in the light of recent events and also in terms of concrete and tangible measures, especially concerning EaP citizens.

      Sectoral issues: other sectoral issues were highlighted such as:

      • easing trade barriers;
      • introducing individual targeted measures, travel bans and asset and property freezes directed at officials, legislators and their business sponsors responsible for human rights violations,
      • sharing experiences of democratic reforms, drawing on the rich experience that European countries have in the process of establishing and protecting democratic regimes based on respect for fundamental values and the rule of law;
      • strengthening measures aiming to protect human rights defenders;
      • frozen conflicts hamper the full development of the EaP and exacerbate hate, animosity and tensions among the peoples of several EaP countries;
      • enhancing the participation and the role of civil society;
      • raising awareness of the complexity of the economic problems, promoting good governance in the financial sector and cooperation with international financial institutions, adopting a sectoral approach, and encouraging legislation conducive to the development of the SME sector;
      • strengthen the business dimension of the Eastern Partnership;
      • promoting joint activities with other strategic partners and cooperation in international and European organisations;
      • the need to promote social and cultural ties and cooperation in the field of research and innovation.

      Pressure from Russia: Members deplored the continuous pressure exerted on the EaP countries, through economic, political and military tools, by Russia, which perceives the strengthening of relations between the EU and the EaP countries as actions against its own interests. They highlighted the need to address this in talks with Russia, as well as the need for a serious discussion among EU Member States on new ways of constructively engaging Russia in initiatives that reflect common interests in the context of a secure, stable and prosperous European neighbourhood, thus overcoming obsolete and dangerous thinking in terms of spheres of influence. The report called on the EU to take concrete measures, including economic assistance, easing of trade regimes, projects to enhance energy security and economic modernisation, in order to support the EaP countries in their European aspirations, and to adopt a

      common strategy vis-à-vis Russia.

      Lastly, Members stressed that while the EaP is being widely criticised, the success of the initiative is dependent on the engagement and political will of both the EU and its Eastern neighbours. It noted, further, that it is essential that any criticism of the EaP should be constructive in character and should be targeted on improving it rather than discrediting it.

    activities/5/committees
    • body: EP shadows: group: EPP name: KOVATCHEV Andrey group: S&D name: FLECKENSTEIN Knut group: ALDE name: VAJGL Ivo group: Verts/ALE name: SCHULZ Werner group: GUE/NGL name: SCHOLZ Helmut responsible: True committee: AFET date: 2013-01-16T00:00:00 committee_full: Foreign Affairs rapporteur: group: ECR name: KOWAL Paweł Robert
    • body: EP responsible: False committee_full: International Trade committee: INTA
    activities/5/date
    Old
    2014-03-03T00:00:00
    New
    2014-03-12T00:00:00
    activities/5/docs
    • url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=TA&language=EN&reference=P7-TA-2014-0229 type: Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading title: T7-0229/2014
    activities/5/type
    Old
    Vote in committee, 1st reading/single reading
    New
    Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading
    committees/0/rapporteur/0/mepref
    Old
    4de1860a0fb8127435bdbfd1
    New
    4f1ad20ab819f27595000000
    committees/0/shadows/0/group
    Old
    EPP
    New
    PPE
    committees/0/shadows/0/mepref
    Old
    4de1860a0fb8127435bdbfd0
    New
    4f1ac463b819f2589600000d
    committees/0/shadows/1/mepref
    Old
    4de184c40fb8127435bdbe06
    New
    4f1ac807b819f25efd0000c2
    committees/0/shadows/2/mepref
    Old
    4de1893c0fb8127435bdc459
    New
    4f1adc3eb819f207b300010b
    committees/0/shadows/3/mepref
    Old
    4de1889f0fb8127435bdc387
    New
    4f1adb3cb819f207b30000b3
    committees/0/shadows/4/mepref
    Old
    4de1889e0fb8127435bdc386
    New
    4f1adb31b819f207b30000af
    procedure/Modified legal basis
    Rules of Procedure of the European Parliament EP 150
    procedure/legal_basis/0
    Old
    Rules of Procedure of the European Parliament EP 048
    New
    Rules of Procedure of the European Parliament EP 052
    activities/2
    date
    2014-03-03T00:00:00
    body
    EP
    type
    Vote in committee, 1st reading/single reading
    committees
    activities/3/date
    Old
    2014-04-03T00:00:00
    New
    2014-03-05T00:00:00
    activities/3/docs
    • url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=REPORT&mode=XML&reference=A7-2014-0157&language=EN type: Committee report tabled for plenary, single reading title: A7-0157/2014
    activities/3/type
    Old
    Indicative plenary sitting date, 1st reading/single reading
    New
    Committee report tabled for plenary, single reading
    activities/4
    date
    2014-03-10T00:00:00
    docs
    url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?secondRef=TOC&language=EN&reference=20140310&type=CRE type: Debate in Parliament title: Debate in Parliament
    body
    EP
    type
    Debate in Parliament
    activities/5
    date
    2014-03-12T00:00:00
    docs
    type: Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading title: T7-0229/2014
    body
    EP
    type
    Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading
    procedure/stage_reached
    Old
    Awaiting committee decision
    New
    Procedure completed
    activities/0/committees/0/shadows/2
    group
    ALDE
    name
    VAJGL Ivo
    committees/0/shadows/2
    group
    ALDE
    name
    VAJGL Ivo
    activities/2/date
    Old
    2014-03-10T00:00:00
    New
    2014-04-03T00:00:00
    activities/0/committees/0/shadows/0
    group
    EPP
    name
    KOVATCHEV Andrey
    activities/0/committees/0/shadows/2
    group
    Verts/ALE
    name
    SCHULZ Werner
    activities/0/committees/0/shadows/3
    group
    GUE/NGL
    name
    SCHOLZ Helmut
    committees/0/shadows/0
    group
    EPP
    name
    KOVATCHEV Andrey
    committees/0/shadows/2
    group
    Verts/ALE
    name
    SCHULZ Werner
    committees/0/shadows/3
    group
    GUE/NGL
    name
    SCHOLZ Helmut
    activities/2/date
    Old
    2014-02-25T00:00:00
    New
    2014-03-10T00:00:00
    activities/2
    date
    2013-12-06T00:00:00
    docs
    url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=COMPARL&mode=XML&language=EN&reference=PE524.575 type: Committee draft report title: PE524.575
    body
    EP
    type
    Committee draft report
    activities/3
    date
    2014-01-09T00:00:00
    docs
    type: Amendments tabled in committee title: PE526.268
    body
    EP
    type
    Amendments tabled in committee
    activities/3
    date
    2014-01-09T00:00:00
    docs
    type: Amendments tabled in committee title: PE526.268
    body
    EP
    type
    Amendments tabled in committee
    activities/2/docs/0/url
    http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=COMPARL&mode=XML&language=EN&reference=PE524.575
    activities/2
    date
    2013-12-06T00:00:00
    docs
    type: Committee draft report title: PE524.575
    body
    EP
    type
    Committee draft report
    activities/1/docs
    • url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/ http://register.consilium.europa.eu/servlet/driver?page=Result&typ=Simple&cmsid=638&ff_COTE_DOCUMENT=&ff_TITRE=&ff_SOUS_COTE_MATIERE=&fc=REGAISEN&srm=25&md=400&ssf=DATE_DOCUMENT+DESC&single_comparator=%3D&from_date=&to_date=&lang=EN&ff_FT_TEXT=3273&dd_DATE_REUNION=18/11/2013&single_date=18/11/2013 type: Debate in Council title: 3273
    activities/1
    date
    2013-11-18T00:00:00
    body
    CSL
    type
    Council Meeting
    council
    Foreign Affairs
    meeting_id
    3273
    activities
    • date: 2013-09-12T00:00:00 body: EP type: Committee referral announced in Parliament, 1st reading/single reading committees: body: EP shadows: group: S&D name: FLECKENSTEIN Knut responsible: True committee: AFET date: 2013-01-16T00:00:00 committee_full: Foreign Affairs rapporteur: group: ECR name: KOWAL Paweł Robert body: EP responsible: False committee_full: International Trade committee: INTA
    • date: 2014-02-25T00:00:00 body: EP type: Indicative plenary sitting date, 1st reading/single reading
    committees
    • body: EP shadows: group: S&D name: FLECKENSTEIN Knut responsible: True committee: AFET date: 2013-01-16T00:00:00 committee_full: Foreign Affairs rapporteur: group: ECR name: KOWAL Paweł Robert
    • body: EP responsible: False committee_full: International Trade committee: INTA
    links
    other
      procedure
      dossier_of_the_committee
      AFET/7/13300
      geographical_area
      reference
      2013/2149(INI)
      title
      Assessing and setting priorities for EU relations with the Eastern partnership countries
      legal_basis
      Rules of Procedure of the European Parliament EP 048
      stage_reached
      Awaiting committee decision
      subtype
      Initiative
      type
      INI - Own-initiative procedure
      subject
      6.40.15 European neighbourhood policy