EU/ISRAEL ACTION PLAN
1. Introduction
The enlargement of the European Union on 1
st
May 2004 has brought a historical shift for the
Union in political, geographic and economic terms. The EU and Israel are now closer together than
ever before and, as near neighbours, will reinforce their political and economic interdependence.
Enlargement offers the opportunity for the EU and Israel to develop an increasingly close
relationship, going beyond co-operation, to involve a significant measure of economic integration
and a deepening of political co-operation. The European Union and Israel are determined to make
use of this occasion to enhance their relations and to promote stability, security and well-being. The
approach is founded on partnership, joint ownership and differentiation. It will contribute to the
further development of our strategic partnership.
The European Neighbourhood Policy of the European Union sets ambitious objectives based on
commitments to shared values and effective implementation of the political, economic, social and
institutional actions agreed to in this Action Plan.
Israel and the EU will strive to intensify political, security, economic, scientific and cultural
relations, and shared responsibility in conflict prevention and conflict resolution.
The Presidency conclusions of the Essen Council in December 1994 already stated that: “The
European Council considers that Israel, on account of its high level of economic development,
should enjoy special status in its relations with the EU on the basis of reciprocity and common
interest …”. The EU has concluded an Association Agreement with Israel. The EU and Israel with
the other Mediterranean partners have been working together in the framework of the Barcelona
process. This AP will contribute to the fulfilment of the Essen declaration as we shape the future
path and framework of the EU-Israel relations.
The EU and Israel share the common values of democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of
law and basic freedoms. Both parties are committed to the struggle against all form of anti-
Semitism, racism and xenophobia. Historically and culturally, there exist great natural affinity and
common heritage. Thus, we strive to build bridges and networks.
Israel has a functioning market economy and a well developed public administration and public
services. This foundation makes Israel well placed to further develop its relationship with the EU
including in the framework of the ENP.
The level of ambition of the EU/Israel relationship will depend on the degree of commitment to
common values as well as the mutual interests and the capacity of each party to implement jointly
agreed priorities. The pace of progress of the relationship will acknowledge fully the efforts and
concrete achievements in meeting those commitments.
This Action Plan is a first step in this process. It covers a timeframe of three years. Its
implementation will help fulfil the provisions in the Association Agreement (AA), build ties in new
areas and will encourage and support Israel’s objectives for further integration into European
economic and social structures. It will also build solid foundations for further economic integration
based on the adoption and implementation of economic and trade-related rules and regulations with
the potential to enhance trade, investment and growth. It will furthermore help to devise and
implement policies and measures to promote economic growth, employment and social cohesion, to
reduce poverty and to protect the environment, thereby contributing to the long-term objective of
sustainable development.