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The European Union Council today approved comprehensive conclusions that aim to reinforce the extended internal market and bolster EU relations with non-EU Western European countries and the Faroe Islands.
The conclusions, a biennial assessment of relationships with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Andorra, San Marino, Monaco, and the self-governing Faroe Islands, reflect the EU’s strategic interest in maintaining and enhancing its partnership with these highly integrated, like-minded nations. “These countries are integral to our extended community, sharing fundamental values and interests with the EU,” stated a Council spokesperson.
Emphasizing unity in response to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the Council praised the exceptional cooperation from these non-EU nations in key areas of EU external action. This collaboration is vital for promoting a multilateral, rules-based world order and addressing global priorities such as human rights, peace, security, and climate change mitigation.
The Council’s report highlights the robust economic ties and interdependence that characterize the extended internal market, underscoring the joint responsibility to maintain its integrity and ensure equal rights and obligations for all citizens and businesses involved. “It is imperative that all participating states uphold the homogeneity of our extended market to benefit all partners equally,” the spokesperson added.
Additionally, the conclusions detail ongoing cooperation in various sectors including energy security, justice, home affairs, and sustainable fish stock management in the North-East Atlantic. The Council also reviewed cooperation under the European Economic Area (EEA) framework, marking the upcoming 30th anniversary of the EEA Agreement, and bilateral engagements with each respective country.
