The EPLO Washington DC office works directly with members of the US Congress to build a transatlantic network of legislators and legislative staffers on issues requiring political cooperation. This is the first EPLO office located outside of the European Union (EU). The European Parliament's Liaison Office in Washington DC was opened in 2010 to strengthen cooperation between legislators in the U.S. and the European Union, and to provide information to the public in the United States. Americans and Europeans together constitute the leading force in the world economy and, over the last 60 years, we have cooperated closely to enhance the cause of peace, freedom and human rights. Together we also face contemporary challenges - most notably the threat of terrorism and the need to increase economic growth, while protecting our environment. The European Parliament consists of 705 members directly elected by citizens of EU member states. Our members work closely with the European Commission and the European Council to develop the laws and policies of the EU.