On 2 May 1968, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates the Council’s reply to WEU Assembly Recommendation 164 on the political responsibilities of WEU countries outside Europe. The Council outlines the various activities and consultations, particularly concerning the Middle East, Africa, East–West relations and the action of non-aligned countries. These consultations and exchanges of information on the international situation reveal a common approach on several aspects of the questions discussed. Although the progress in European integration may lead governments to work towards closer political collaboration, the Council emphasises the importance of pursuing consultations on such issues.