Brussels, 17 November 2009
The Council adopted the following conclusions:
1. "Commemorating the 10th anniversary of the inception of the European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP), the Council commended the success of this policy which saw the deployment of some 70.000 personnel in 22 ESDP missions and operations, of which 12 are ongoing, in support of international peace and security. ESDP has proven to be an effective tool in the EU's comprehensive external action to be viewed in the framework of the European Security Strategy (ESS) and the need to strengthen the links and synergies between security and development.
2. The Council endorsed the Ministerial Declaration "ESDP Ten Years - Challenges and Opportunities".
I. ESDP MISSIONS AND OPERATIONS
Western Balkans
EULEX Kosovo
3. The Council commended the mission's efforts in implementing its mandate throughout Kosovo, following its declaration of full operational capability on 6 April 2009, despite facing serious challenges. The Council continued its full support to the further efforts of EULEX to exercise its mandate throughout Kosovo.
4. The Council noted with satisfaction the results achieved so far by EULEX KOSOVO in assisting judicial and law enforcement agencies and in promoting rule of law reforms, including in the prosecution and adjudication of sensitive criminal cases and in the fight against organised crime and corruption; as well as for assuming responsibility for law and order in support of the Kosovo police and in cooperation with other international partners when needed.
5. The Council looked forward to the establishment of the Human Rights Review Panel to assess the conduct of EULEX Kosovo in the performance of its executive mandate. This will contribute to the external accountability on the part of EULEX.
6. Recalling the considerable and unique responsibility assumed by the European Union, the Council stressed the importance of all Member States ensuring that the mission continues to be adequately staffed with high quality personnel in order for the mission to fulfil its mandate.
7. While expressing its full support for local efforts to establish the rule of law, the Council stressed the importance of continued and genuine cooperation on the part of the Kosovo authorities with the mission. The Council reiterated the importance of cooperation by regional and international partners with the mission. The implementation of the EULEX KOSOVO mandate will continue to play an important role in strengthening the stability of the region, in line with its European perspective and will require a consistent commitment by all stakeholders. The Council expressed its continued support to EULEX Kosovo's efforts to enhance regional cooperation.
