On 20 May 2020, the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the Baltic States and Germany held security policy consultations online which addressed the latest security policy related developments in the context of the upcoming German Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU). The topics discussed were the development of the EU security and defence initiatives, strengthening of the EU’s crisis management capabilities, and security aspects of dealing with the consequences of the COVID-19 crisis not only in the Member States but also in EU neighbourhood.
During the German Presidency, it is expected that an agreement will be reached on the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework, and that funding for security initiatives will be included.
The participants were in complete agreement that the EU should continue strengthening its security and defence capabilities. This work should be undertaken in close cooperation with NATO, while avoiding duplication of the Alliance’s efforts.
The consultations also addressed matters on the NATO agenda, including NATO’s role and action during the pandemic, and the reflection process to further strengthen the Alliance’s political dimension.