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An article is presented that reports on foreign relations in Europe between the European Union (EU) and nonmember countries in 2009. In 2009, the EU improved its existing policies and developed commissions for foreign and security relationships with neighboring countries. The article discusses the increase in the number of applications for EU membership, noting how the desire for membership alters relations and the effectiveness of EU conditionality. Information is also provided on conflicts in Eastern Europe, the Treaty of Lisbon for integration, the 21st century global financial crisis, and countries including Switzerland and Norway.

An article is presented that reports on the European Union's (EU) foreign policy and international relations and issues it faced in 2009. Politics in the EU changed in 2009 with the final ratification of the Treaty of Lisbon for integration and the inauguration of U.S. President Barack Obama. The article discusses the EU's challenges related to areas including security policy, international defense, the European Council, the European External Action Service (EEAS), and trade agreements. Information is also provided on former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, EU Commission President José Manuel Barroso, and European Council President Herman van Rompuy.