EU and US discuss the environment
The European Commission and the United States conducted their annual high-level consultations on the environment in Brussels on 14-16 November 1994. The EU delegation was led by Mr. Marius Enthoven, Commission Director-General for the Environment, Nuclear Safety and Civil Protection (DG XI). The US delegation was led by Ms. Eileen Claussen, Special Assistant to the President and Director of Global Environmental Affairs. The participants covered a very full agenda, discussing a wide range of topics including climate change, UN issues, trade and environment, hazardous waste and measures to combat ozone layer depletion. In addition, there were wide-ranging discussions on three technical areas: biotechnology, chemicals and air issues. The talks reflected the realistic and pragmatic approach the two sides are taking to confront important environmental issues. Many of the issues which were discussed either have global consequences, such as climate change, or else they are areas like trade and environment where a better appreciation of each others' positions will be crucial for the two principal players in the field of environmental protection. Both delegations agreed to press for a more results orientated approach in addressing key environmental issues, setting a firm foundation for future cooperation between the EU and the US.