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EU foreign policy chief, Dutch FM call for comprehensive European policy

Xinhua, December 9, 2015 Adjust font size:

Europe needs more than ever a strong and comprehensive foreign and security policy to stand firm against current and future challenges, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and Dutch Foreign Minister Bert Koenders said here on Tuesday.

A pragmatic and concrete approach is needed during the upcoming Dutch presidency of the European Union, said Mogherini at the opening a two-day seminar at The Hague Institute for Global Justice. "We expect and are counting on a strong Dutch role in these difficult times. The migration issue has been around for years but for too long has not been recognised as a communal European problem."

To counter terrorism, EU is engaged in structured discussions with neighbouring countries especially in the Mediterranean and the Middle East, including Turkey, added Mogherini.

The EU foreign policy chief called for better coordination and more exchange of information within Europe. "We don't need new fences inside Europe," she said.

"Many citizens want an answer on terrorism, on migration. It is important to put our efforts together and speak with one voice," echoed Koenders, whose country is to take the rotating EU presidency starting from Jan. 1, 2016.

The Dutch foreign minister called for a single representation of the EU to international organizations, to the United Nations in particular. "The ongoing shift in the global balance of power requires Europe to act as a collective on the world stage," he said. For him, a single representation formed of joined representation would be a solution.

He also argued that more room must be given to emerging countries as according to him in five years the EU share in the world economy will be 15 percent down from 30 percent five years ago.

The Netherlands is seeking election to a non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council for the term 2017-2018. The Dutch are competing with Sweden and Italy for the two available seats.

Koenders reaffirmed his objection to the prospect of extending the veto to new members of the UN.

As to the mini-Schengen proposal tabled earlier by the Dutch cabinet, Koenders told Xinhua that the idea has already been withdrawn. Shengen is still at risk and the Netherlands is working with all countries including Greece in order to improve cooperation on securing external borders to make sure that Schengen will work, he said. Endit