The
European Union has developed an intensive policy of strengthening its
relationship with neighbouring countries.
These involved are sixteen countries, six to the east and ten to the south, the
eastern and southern borders of the EU.
The six countries to the east are: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia,
Ukraine, Belarus and Moldova. Russia
remains a specific case in terms of its relationship with the EU, given its
size and vast population, and must be addressed with a different instrument.
Towards the south the border countries are: Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Jordan,
Israel, the occupied territories of Palestine, Egypt, Syria, Libya and Lebanon.
A close
relationship with neighbouring countries benefits all involved. Certainly the
EU is interested in a more secure and stable developed border area and the East
and South countries would benefit from the EU values and market opportunities.