Lisbon Treaty would protect EU citizens abroad

The Lisbon Treaty, which entered into force on 1 December and reforming government institutions of the European Union, provides for the diplomatic and consular protection to citizens of EU member states, which are located abroad, said on Tuesday European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso.

“Benefits for EU citizens who travel and live abroad, will provide them with diplomatic and consular protection (from the embassies of EU countries),” – quoted Barroso, European Commission’s press office.

The Lisbon Treaty marks the first time post so-called “EU foreign minister”, namely: EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, who is also deputy chairman of the European Commission and head the newly established EU diplomatic service.

In the new post is British appointed Catherine Ashton.