Observatory on European defence, April 2002

April 2002
European Parliament –ESDP
In the framework of a discussion on ESDP within the European Parliament (EP), the Defence Minister of Spain presented the objectives of the Union Presidency. 
The principal targets are the development of the planned operational capabilities, the inclusion of the fight against terrorism in ESDP missions and the development of a defence market that can sustain ESDP.
The EP adopted a resolution calling for the institution of a formal “Defence Council”, the development of permanent relations with NATO and new initiatives aiming at the founding of a European Armament Agency (EAA). The EAA should guide the harmonisation of defence industries and direct   the procurement choices of European countries towards ESDP requirements.