Britain, which is leaving the EU in 2019, and Denmark with a defence opt-out were among those not taking part. EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini described it as a “historic moment in European defence,” and added that “23 member states engaging both on capabilities and on operational steps is something big.” Those who didn’t sign up can join later. Mogherini said countries have already submitted more than 50 joint projects in the fields of defence capabilities and military operations. We have to do it ourselves.”Under the co-operation, member countries will submit an action plan outlining their defence aims. Mogherini, EU military chiefs and the European Defence Agency will then evaluate whether the plans are being respected.

Source: National Post November 14, 2017 02:03 UTC