Today, 21 May, together with Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, the EU signed a on strengthening European Economic Area (EEA) Foreign and Security Policy Cooperation. It is an expression of the strong ties and shared interests and values in an ever-changing geopolitical context. The EU and the EEA EFTA States are strengthening their relationship, notably on foreign and security cooperation.

The signature occurred in the margins of the Political Dialogue with the EU High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Environment and Culture of Liechtenstein Sabine Monauni, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway Espen Barth Eide.

EU High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas said: “The statement we sign today with Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland sends a clear signal that we will do more together at a pivotal moment for European security. From more cooperation between our defence experts to joint work to protect our information space from foreign interference, we can be safer in tackling our shared challenges together. I look forward to continue working side-by-side with these important partners for the European Union.”

Delivering on the declaration on political dialogue adopted in 1994, the EU and Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway developed the cooperation on foreign and security matters to a stable and trust-based partnership.

The Joint Statement consolidates the instruments of cooperation developed so far and creates opportunities for future action. It becomes a point of departure for renewed engagement. 

Built on shared values and principles, the European Economic Area remains a factor of political and economic stability, as well as prosperity and security on the European continent.