The EEAS is the European Union's diplomatic service. It helps the EU's foreign affairs chief – the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy – carry out the Union's Common Foreign and Security Policy.
A key aspect of the work of the EEAS is its ability to work closely with the foreign and defence ministries of the 27 member states of the EU and the other EU institutions such as the European Commission, Council and Parliament. It also has a strong working relationship with the United Nations and other International Organisations.
Since 1st December 2019 Josep Borrell Fontelles from Spain has assumed the role of EU High Representative/Vice President. As the EU's chief diplomat he is charged with shaping and carrying out the EU's foreign, security and defence policies.