The letter of the Twelve on the European diplomatic service. What “suggestions”!
(BRUXELLES2) One could believe that with the passing months, the time for “letters” to Cathy Ashton seemed a long way off. We actually had the letter from the Benelux countries on the EEAS, that on the Middle East from B. Kouchner, the letter from the 3 of the Weimar Triangle (which later became 5) on defence... Well, no. Here is now a letter from twelve Ministers of Foreign Affairs intended to present some " suggestions " for " improve the functioning of the European diplomatic service”. The French, German, Polish and Italian ministers signed it as well as those of Benelux, which is relatively unsurprising. Less common, we find the signatures of all the Baltic countries and the Nordics, except Denmark.
A very political letter
This letter is part of a more general evaluation process which will see the High Representative present a general report by the end of the year, followed in 2013 by a general review of the decision establishing the organization and functioning of the EEAS. This mode of expression is very political. Because if these letters are not "open" officially, they almost have the character of it because they quickly come to journalistic ears and everything from the writing to the content suggests their publication.
This letter is very polite but also very elaborate. Many subjects are covered: the functioning of the delegations, financing, recruitment methods, coordination with the Member States, the preparation of the councils of ministers. It almost gives a guideline, aiming either to support certain reforms already undertaken, or to fill certain recurring gaps. She is mainly interested in the procedures rather than the content produced. And undoubtedly constitutes rather than a criticism in good and due form, a skilful support for a reinforcement and a organization, a little more... "ordered" of the EEAS...
Details are on the club
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