Outside its borders, the European Union is represented by a number of in-country offices – EU delegations – which have a similar role to that of an embassy. This helps ensure consistency in foreign policy across the bloc. The High Representative/Vice President implements EU foreign & security policy, together with EU countries and using national and EU resources. He represents the EU's foreign and security policy around the world, coordinates the work of the European Commission on EU external relations and chairs meetings of EU Foreign, Defence and Development ministers.

The High Representative is also a Vice-President of the European Commission.

worldwide – a network of EU 'embassies' (delegations).

in Brussels – expert staff transferred from the Council of the EU, the European Commission and EU countries' diplomatic services.

The European External Action Service is led by the EU foreign affairs chief – or High Representative for Foreign Affairs & Security Policy.

tackling climate change and human rights issues.

development and humanitarian aid and crisis response.

maintaining good relations with the EU's immediate neighbours through the European Neighbourhood Policy.

ensuring security – under the Common Security & Defence Policy.

peace building – through political, economic and practical support.

works with the national diplomatic services of EU countries, the UN and other leading powers.

manages diplomatic relations & strategic partnerships with non-EU countries.

supports the EU High Representative in conducting EU foreign and security policy.

It aims to make EU foreign policy more coherent and effective, thus increasing Europe's global influence. The European External Action Service (EEAS) is the EU's diplomatic service.

Website: European External Action Service.

High Representative for Foreign Affairs & Security Policy: Josep Borrell.

Role: Manages the EU's diplomatic relations with other countries outside the bloc and conducts EU foreign & security policy.

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