"The European Neighbourhood Policy is a new policy that invites our neighbours to the East and to the South to share in the peace, stability and prosperity that we enjoy in the European Union and which aims to create a ring of friends around the borders of the new enlarged EU".

Benita Ferrero-Waldner
(Commissioner of External Relations
and European Neighbourhood Policy)

What is the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP)?

The European Neighbourhood Policy was introduced by the European Commission in March 2003 as a new framework for relations with eastern and southern neighbours of the European Union. The ENP was defined as a new policy connected with the process of enlargement of the EU and cooperation between members EU and other countries. The main aim of the European Neighbourhood Policy is to share the benefits of the EU's 2004 enlargement with the neighbouring countries in strengthening stability, security and well-being for all concerned. It is designed to prevent the emergence of new dividing lines between the enlarged European Union and its neighbours. It is also addressed to offer them the chance to participate in various European activities, through greater political, economic and cultural co-operation. The ENP offers the EU neighbours a specific relationship, based on common European values.

For more information see
http://europa.eu.int/comm/world/enp/index_en.htm