The European Commission adopted a Communication on security of energy supply and international cooperation. According to the Commission, this Communication sets out for the first time a comprehensive strategy for the EU's external relations in energy which has as main goal to improve coordination among EU Member States in such field.

Improved coordination among EU Member States in identifying and implementing clear priorities in external energy policy is the approach outlined by the Commission in the new Communication adopted on security of energy supply and international cooperation. Commissioner for Energy Günther Oettinger stressed that the EU energy policy has made real progress over the last several years. However the EU must extend the achievements of its large internal energy market beyond its borders to ensure the security of energy supplies to Europe and foster international energy partnerships. He also added that the EU and its Member States act together and speak with one voice.

The Communication adopted proposes to enhance the external dimension of the EU energy policy in line with the Energy 2020 strategy, through improving transparency among EU Member States on their energy agreements with third countries, strengthening coordination when approaching partner countries, when taking position in international organisations, and when developing comprehensive energy partnerships with key partner countries. The conclusions on "Energy 2020: A strategy for competitive, sustainable and secure energy", which set political orientations for the EU energy strategy for 2011-2020, were adopted by the Council in March this year.

Besides the Communication, the Commission proposed a Decision setting up an information exchange mechanism for intergovernmental agreements in the field of energy between Member States and third countries. The proposed mechanism is set to strengthen the negotiating position of Member States vis-à-vis third countries, while ensuring security of supply, proper functioning of the internal market and creating legal certainty for investment.