E.U.+(European+Union)

= E.U. (European Union) =


 * What is the E.U.?:**The European Union (EU) is an economic and political union of 27 member states, located primarily in Europe.

Treaty of Maastricht: The Maastricht Treaty (formally, the Treaty on European Union, TEU) created the E.U.
 * When was it established?:**It was established by the ( Treaty of Maastricht) on 1 November 1993
 * Map:**[[image:EU_map.jpg caption="Map of the E.U."]]
 * GDP:** With almost 500 million citizens, the EU combined generates an estimated 30% share (US$ 16.8 trillion in 2007) of the nominal gross world product
 * What the E.U. seeks to do:**The EU has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital. It maintains a common trade policy, agricultural and fisheries policies, and a regional development policy. Sixteen member states have adopted a common currency, the euro. It has developed a role in foreign policy, representing its members in the World Trade Organization, at G8 summits, and at the United Nations. Twenty-one EU countries are members of NATO. The EU has developed a role in justice and home affairs, including the abolition of passport controls between many member states under the Schengen Agreement, which incorporates also non-EU states.


 * Military and defense: ** Member states are responsible for their own territorial defense. Many EU members are also members of NATO although some member states follow policies of neutrality.