1973-74 have often been seen as an end point for the European Community’s attempt to assert itself as a distinct international actor. While not dismissing any setbacks, this paper points to the remarkable developments in European cooperation in international affairs during 1974. These developments led to a clearer definition of the EC’s profile as an international actor: its distinctive traits were highlighted; its range of activity was specified; its international personality was recognised by foreign countries; and the European Council was established.
Keywords: European Community; European Council; External policies of the EC; International identity; Self-assertion