Background – 

In order to develop closer ties between EUROCORPS (EC) and EU institutions, the Director General of the European Union Military Staff (DGEUMS) and EC Commander (COMEC) signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) on 18 January 2016, which listed 10 possible areas of cooperation between the two organisations. 

In January 2017, an update to the Implementation Work Plan (IWP) was further agreed by DGEUMS and COMEC and this catered for both organisations to convene annually at Management Level, in order to assess the current IWP and give guidance on the way ahead. The 8^th MLM represents the second iteration in 2025 of this forum, organised at the proposal of EUROCORPS with the aim of providing a mutual update on the numerous collaboration files currently underway. The Deputy Directors of both organisations oversaw the implementation of this process.

Welcome –

Speaking during his opening remarks, Major General HORVATH welcomed Major General DE LAROUZIERE and his staff to the EUMS and highlighted how the meeting was another opportunity to continue “the fruitful collaboration and relationship between the EUMS and EUROCORPS in the framework of the European military cooperation. It continues to evolve in response to new challenges and opportunities that arise in our complex, interconnected world.” 

EUMS

Major General Gabor HORVATH delivers his opening remarks at the 8th EUMS – EUROCORPS Management Level Meeting in Brussels

Discussions – 

During the course of the meeting a number of topics were discussed including ECs role in future EU Battle Groups, Exercise Collaboration, EU Rapid Deployment Capabilities Development, and guidance on the way ahead for both organisations including discussions on the validation of a new LoI between the two organisations for the subsequent EUMS Director General and  EUROCORPS Commander joint signature.

New Letter of Intent -

The DDG highlighted how the LoI signed between both organisations in 2016 “was designed for a different era” and therefore “It is appropriate that we adapt our agreements to ensure that they are fit for purpose….by doing so, we will not only enhance the effectiveness and agility of our collaboration but also ensure that we are fully equipped to respond to current and future challenges.”

Looking Forward -

Major General HORVATH wrapped up the meeting by sincerely thanking the staff of EC for their engagement, commitment and valuable contributions throughout the discussions before adding how both organisations must continue to adapt, innovate and deepen their cooperation in new areas, while remaining flexible and agile to meet the demands of the evolving security landscape.

At the conclusion of the meeting Major General Gabor HORVATH made a presentation to Major General Geoffroy DE LAROUZIERE to mark the end of his appointment as Deputy Commander of EUROCORPS.

The next meeting between both organisations is scheduled to take place in early 2026 in Strasbourg.

EUMS

Maj Gen HORVATH makes a presentation to Maj Gen DE LAROUZIERE.