The Twelve's Relations with Third Countries:

Abstract

From its inception the European Political Cooperation (EPC) has gradually developed a network of dialogue partners, and dialogue with third countries and groups of third countries is now extensive. This article presents an overview of the most important formal consultations taking place. It examines the various forms, levels and frequency of relations, and the criteria for choosing the concrete format of political consultations. The article also explains why dialogue has been established and developed, and four factors are put forward. First, the integration process of the European Community itself is a necessary precondition for dialogue, and also explains why the Twelve are now more willing to enter into dialogue, and why the Twelve themselves have become more desirable partners for consultation. The second factor is the response from the third countries: from the outset the EPC has excited keen interest — and in some cases felt pressure — from third countries wanting to establish formal contact. Third, dialogue has benefited the Twelve, enabling them to assert themselves on a global scale. Finally, local or regional crises and conflicts outside Europe have served as a catalyst for the establishment of interregional cooperation.