EU’s new foreign affairs chief will focus on Balkans and EU eastern neighbours

cde.news desk 8 October 2019, 15:10 · 1 min read

epa07903770 Josep Borrell, European Commissioner-designate as High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, attends his hearing before the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium, 07 October 2019. MEPs from various committees are hearing the proposed members of Commission President-elect von der Leyen's. Commissioners have to be approved by the parliament following parliamentary vetting process. EPA-EFE/OLIVIER HOSLET

The European Union’s incoming foreign affairs chief said on Monday he would focus on the Balkans and Europe’s eastern neighbours, while urging the bloc to stand firm on sanctions against Russia.

Josep Borrell, the Spanish foreign minister set to take over next month as the EU’s foreign policy high representative, told a confirmation hearing at the European Parliament that the best way to tackle Russian “expansionism” was to support countries like Ukraine on their path to democracy and prosperity.

The EU has punishing economic sanctions in place against Russia over its annexation of Crimea and its role in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Via Al Jazeera

Filed under Europe Explained

Topics Balkans EU Josep Borrell

EU’s new foreign affairs chief will focus on Balkans and EU eastern neighbours

More from Europe Explained

Why Malta Should Abstain on the EU Tobacco Excise Directive

MEPs want stronger EU response to drug trafficking networks

ECB Unveils New Euro Banknote Designs Featuring Icons, Rivers and Birds