Council approves the European Defence Agency’s statute, seat and operational rules

Brussels - 13 July 2011 EDA News

Yesterday, the Council adopted a Decision defining the Statute, Seat and Operational Rules of the European Defence Agency (EDA). This Council decision replaces the Council Joint Action 2004/551/CFSP of 12 July 2004 on the EDA.

The decision underlines the EDA’s key role in support of the Council and of Member States in improving the EU’s defence capabilities. It implements the Lisbon Treaty articles governing the Agency, including its tasks, which are to contribute to identifying the member states’ military capability objectives; to promote harmonization of operational needs; to propose multilateral projects; to support defence technology research; and to contribute to strengthening the industrial base of the defence sector. It will also provide for the Agency’s support to permanent structured cooperation, should the Council decide on its establishment.

Ms. Claude-France Arnould, EDA’s Chief Executive, said:  

"This decision reinforces the Agency's mandate in accordance with the Lisbon Treaty. It preserves the established mechanisms of the Agency for establishing collaborative capability development projects and programmes. EDA will continue to develop and implement joint solutions to address the capability requirements of its Member States, and to play an important role in the areas of Research & Technology, Armaments, and Industry & Market".