Bilateral Agreements Concluded by the European Community: An Overview
The European Community, now known as the European Union, is a political and economic union of 27 member states located primarily in Europe. The EU is known for its ambitious agenda, which includes policies related to trade, the environment, foreign affairs, and many other areas.
One of the key ways in which the EU advances its policy agenda is through the negotiation and conclusion of bilateral agreements with third countries. These agreements are legal instruments that establish a framework for cooperation between the EU and a partner country, often in the areas of trade, investment, and political relations.
The EU has a long history of entering into bilateral agreements with a wide range of countries around the world. Some of the most important agreements include those with the United States, Canada, Japan, and China. However, the EU has also negotiated agreements with many smaller countries and regions, such as South Korea, Chile, and the Caribbean.
Bilateral agreements can take many different forms, depending on the priorities and needs of the parties involved. For example, some agreements focus primarily on reducing tariffs and other barriers to trade, while others may aim to promote investment, protect intellectual property, or strengthen political cooperation.
One key aspect of many EU bilateral agreements is the inclusion of provisions related to sustainable development and environmental protection. The EU has made it a priority to ensure that its trade agreements are aligned with its commitment to promote sustainable development and combat climate change.
Another important aspect of EU bilateral agreements is the role they play in advancing the EU`s geopolitical interests. The EU has sought to use its economic clout and negotiating power to promote stability and security in regions of strategic importance, such as the Middle East and Africa.
Overall, bilateral agreements concluded by the European Community are an important tool for advancing the EU`s policy objectives and promoting cooperation with partner countries around the world. As the EU continues to face a rapidly changing global landscape, it is likely that bilateral agreements will remain an essential part of its policy toolkit.