Sherbata N. The development of the European Union external economic policy in free trade zones.

The thesis discloses the development of the European Union external economic policy in free trade zones. The evolution of free trade economy conceptions in a world economy is examined. The author characterizes pre-conditions and effects of barriers removal in international trade. The European Union has recently shifted to a trade policy that envisages a greater use of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). In particular the EU is working on a number of new FTA initiatives. Policy statements also reiterate the EU's commitment to multilateralism in trade and to the completion of the stalled Doha Development Agenda. The thesis considers the background to the shift towards a more active use of FTAs, the motivations and forces that have brought about the shift in policy, and the likely EU objectives with regard to the content of the FTAs.