The annual report takes stock of EU external action in different thematic and geographic areas, and outlines the Parliament's position on key foreign policy issues facing the EU. The S&D Group has consistently supported a comprehensive approach to EU foreign policy for the benefit of all EU citizens, anchored in core European values and in constructive co-operation with our strategic partners. Given the uncertain and changing international landscape, the EU needs a foreign policy that is both internally cohesive and strategically coherent. Only by making full use of the institutional tools made available by the Lisbon Treaty – above all the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the post of high representative for foreign affairs and security policy – to fulfil its responsibilities and role as a global actor effectively.