18 October 2001

EU Declares Solidarity with U.S.; Aid to Afghanistan is Priority

The European Union (EU) issued a statement October 17 in Luxembourg that declares "total solidarity" with the United States -- "with which it shares the objectives of combating terrorism" -- reiterates the importance of "a multilateral and global approach under United Nations aegis in order to strengthen the international coalition in its fight against terrorism in all its aspects," and sets as an "absolute priority" emergency humanitarian aid to Afghanistan.

Following is the text of the statement:

Action By The European Union Following The Attacks In The United States Of America

• The European Union declares its total solidarity with the United States, with which it shares the objectives of combating terrorism. It reiterates the importance of its close consultations with the United States. It confirms its wholehearted support for the action taken in the context of legitimate defence and in accordance with the UN Charter and UN Security Council Resolution 1368.

• The Council reiterated the importance of a multilateral and global approach under United Nations aegis in order to strengthen the international coalition in its fight against terrorism in all its aspects. The Union will act with determination within the United Nations and the other international organisations competent for furthering the fight against terrorism. It will take advantage, in particular, of the November Ministerial session of the United Nations General Assembly to advance its objectives.

• Emergency humanitarian aid in Afghanistan is an absolute priority of the Union, which undertakes to mobilise without delay aid amounting to more than EUR 320 million. In this respect, the releasing of EUR 25 million from the reserve will enable the Commission (ECHO) to respond to the most urgent humanitarian needs. Mobilisation and convoying of aid will be regularly examined.

• The Council expresses its concern at the difficulties of access and of convoying humanitarian aid in Afghanistan. It supports the efforts of the United Nations specialised agencies, of the ICRC [International Committee of the Red Cross] and of all humanitarian organisations in seeking practical and flexible solutions. The Council also appeals to the countries of the region to facilitate by all means possible the humanitarian operations for hosting fresh flows of Afghan refugees and will implement the necessary means to assist them in doing so.