ABSTRACT
Our discussion of relations with the near abroad demonstrated both the complexity and the uncertainty of the relationship between presence and actorness. While this is, in part, a function of differing external perceptions and expectations of the EU, it also reflects an inability to agree, internally, on measures which would provide overall strategic direction for EC/EU external activities. Here, the attempt to create a common foreign and security policy for the EU is central to our concerns. If the Union is fully to realize the potential of its significant presence, it is vital that the economic power of the European Community is articulated to a stronger sense of collective political purpose. A well coordinated and fully functioning common foreign policy would have this effect.
