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Reuters

EU's foreign policy chief seeks to spell out agenda

By Luke Baker
BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Union's top diplomat, Catherine Ashton, has had a tough time since taking on the job four months ago, but will try to turn things around this week as she sets out her foreign policy goals.

Ashton, 53, was EU leaders' surprise choice to be their high representative for foreign affairs and security policy at a summit last November, succeeding Spain's Javier Solana in the high-profile post despite having no diplomatic experience.

The Briton, a former health administrator and EU trade commissioner who has never held elected office, made a stumbling start, leaving many media commentators and diplomats to dismiss her as a lightweight novice, ill-suited for the portfolio. Click here for more.