Observatory on European defence, May 2010

May 5, 2010
NEW NATO-UKRAINE AGREEMENT ON AVIATION SAFETY
Ukraine has signed with Turkey, on behalf of NATO, a Memorandum of Understanding on “Air Situation Data Exchange” . The agreement aims to increase aviation safety by reducing the possibility of cross-border accidents and improving the joint response in case of hijacking.

May 17, 2010
NATO GROUP OF EXPERTS PRESENTS THE REPORT ABOUT THE NEW STRATEGIC CONCEPT
The Group of Experts chaired by Madeleine Albright has presented the report aimed at preparing the stage for the reflection about the new NATO Strategic Concept. The report contains analysis and recommendations on major issues about activities, functioning and prospects of the Alliance. The Group of Experts was appointed by NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, who now has the duty to draft a Strategic Concept to be submitted to member countries.

May 18, 2010
EXTENSION OF THE UE POLICE MISSION IN AFGHANISTAN
The EU Council has extended until May 31, 2013 the mandate of the UE police mission in Afghanistan (EUPOL Afghanistan), intended to assist the Afghan government to create an efficient and sustainable police system, in cooperation with NATO and UN missions.

May 25, 2010
EXTENSION OF THE EU MISSION IN GUINEA BISSAU
The EU Council has decided to extend until September 30, 2010 the European mission of reform of Security Sector (EU-RSS) in Guinea Bissau. The mission was launched in 2008 to assist the local authorities in the reform process.

May 27, 2010
CHANGE OF COMMAND AT EU GENERAL STAFF
General Ton Van Osch (Netherlands) has taken over from General David Leakey (UK) the command of EU Military Staff (EUMS), in the presence of High Representative Catherine Ashton.