ENP stands for European Neighborhood Policy. It refers to the foreign policy initiative implemented by the European Union (EU) towards its neighboring countries, with the aim of strengthening relationships, promoting stability, prosperity, and security in these regions.
The ENP was first introduced in 2003 as a response to the EU's enlargement process and the growing importance of its neighborhood. The policy applies to 16 countries, which are predominantly located in Eastern Europe, the Southern Caucasus, and the Mediterranean region. These countries include Ukraine, Moldova, Belarus, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Palestine, Syria, and Tunisia.
The objectives of the ENP are diverse and encompass various areas such as strengthening political cooperation, promoting economic integration, facilitating mobility and people-to-people contacts, supporting democratic reforms, and enhancing regional security. The policy is supported through various mechanisms, including financial assistance, technical cooperation, and regular political dialogues.
The ENP is characterized by a tailor-made approach, as it recognizes the different aspirations and circumstances of each neighboring country. The policy aims to foster stability, democracy, and economic prosperity in these countries, with the ultimate goal of creating a ring of well-governed states that can provide security and opportunities for both the EU and its neighbors.
In summary, ENP is a foreign policy framework developed by the EU to enhance cooperation and partnership with its neighboring countries, contributing to stability, security, and prosperity in the region.
