Better NATO-EU relations require more sincerity

Following an agreement on a NATO Strategic Concept, the EU needed to take compatible steps. A number of practical arrangements needed to be put in place in such a way as to embrace all non-EU European allies. The renewed arrangements needed a new and open mindset. The artificial distinction between participation in military and civilian operations for instance needed to come to an end. Consultation mechanisms for non-EU Allies had to be genuine. Obviously, the decision-making would lie with the EU. But its authority could not be undermined by listening to other allies and trying to accommodating their concerns. This was particularly relevant if the ally in question was a candidate to the EU with a vision for shared security that has endured over 50 years.