2017 annual report on the implementation of the European Union's instruments for financing external actions in 2016 : the staff working document

In 2016, Europe continued to be confronted with a range of significant challenges. Conflicts and instability were developing on both our Southern and Eastern borders. Terrorist attacks were perpetrated inside and outside Europe. The European Union (EU) continued to be faced with unprecedented refugee and migrant flows. As in previous years, the EU responded comprehensively, using the entire breadth of its policies and tools that span diplomatic, security, financial, trade, development actions and humanitarian aid. Following the request of the European Council, High Representative and Vice President (HRVP) Mogherini submitted the EU Global Strategy (EUGS) on foreign and security policy on 28th and 29th June 2016. The EUGS has two aims echoed in the title itself 'Shared Vision, Common Action' and sets out EU core interests and principles for engaging in the world. It provides a vision for a more credible, responsible and responsive EU in the world. The EUGS will guide EU actions for the years to come. Implementation of the EUGS started on its five priority areas and endorsed by the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) of October 2016 and by the European Council of December 2016, namely investing in the resilience of states and societies to the East and South and an integrated approach to conflicts and crises; strengthening security and defence; reinforcing the internal/external policy nexus, with special attention to migration; updating existing or preparing new regional and thematic strategies; and stepping up public diplomacy efforts. Progress in implementing the EUGS in the area of security and defence was swift and substantial with the implementation of the European Defence Action Plan and of the EUNATO Joint Declaration. Throughout the year, the EU continued to play a leading role in international efforts addressing crises in Ukraine and providing support to ongoing efforts in Syria, Iraq and Libya. It worked tirelessly with its international partners against the activities of Da'esh. The EU will support all efforts for a lasting peaceful solution respecting the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Ukraine and which ensures a stable, prosperous and democratic future for all its citizens. Russia's interference in Ukraine continued to dominate the EU's relations with Russia and the five principles confirmed by the FAC in March 2016 will continue to guide the EU's policy on this country. At the same time, the EU remains committed to maintaining open lines of communication with Russia on international crises, global and other issues that are in the interest of the EU.