“European development cooperation is a key element in securing the future of the globe. In light of a success story of more than five decades of European integration, Europe shares responsibility for peace, freedom and justice in the world”, State Secretary Hans Winkler said at the 11th session of the Joint Parliamentary Assembly of members of the European Parliament and of parliaments from Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific. "Development cooperation is not an end in itself. Today, it is much more about coherently joining up different policy areas and pursuing regional and national development strategies to address the particular needs of the ACP countries.”
"The EU’s relationship with the ACP States is based on the common will to reduce poverty and increase the prosperity of these countries. However, the economic, social and sustainable development of the individual countries must also be in accord with human rights, democracy and the rule of law.” In this connection, Winkler stressed the role of parliamentarians as elected representatives in championing these values. He expressed satisfaction that the political dialogue provided for in the Cotonou Agreement had also been able to achieve substantial progress in human rights issues.
The Joint Parliamentary Assembly of the EU and ACP States is made up of 78 members of parliament from each side. The Assembly meets twice yearly, once in Europe and once in the ACP region.
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