[PIO] Participation of the Foreign Minister at the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels

Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos participated in the proceedings of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, which took place on 11 December 2023 in Brussels.

The Council discussed the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine, the situation in Israel and the Middle East as well as current developments in the Sahel region.

With regard to Ukraine, Ministers were briefed on the situation in the country by Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba. Mr. Kombos reiterated Cyprus' support for Ukraine and its European perspective, on the basis of the progress that Ukraine itself will demonstrate in terms of the necessary reforms.

During the discussion on the Middle East, Mr. Kombos underlined the need for a united voice of the EU and its substantial engagement in the region, and reiterated that the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages is imperative. He also referred to the importance of efforts to revitalise the political process with the ultimate goal of a comprehensive settlement of the Middle East on the basis of a two-state solution, creating conditions for lasting peace and stability. He stressed that Cyprus is particularly concerned about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and briefed on the latest developments regarding Cyprus' initiative to establish a maritime humanitarian corridor through Cyprus.

On the situation in the Sahel region, Mr. Kobos mentioned support for the strategic orientation for the preservation of EU interests, which aims at countering terrorism and the instrumentalization of migrants, supporting local communities and countering malicious actors. The Minister welcomed the joint statement of Armenia and Azerbaijan, noting that it can contribute to the stability and prosperity of the region. Kobos also welcomed Armenia's commitment to establishing closer ties with the EU and highlighted the importance of protecting cultural heritage in Nagorno-Karabakh. He expressed his gratitude for the invitation to visit Armenia in the first quarter of 2024.

For footage of the Foreign Minister's participation in the EU Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) click here

Contents of this article including associated images are owned by PIO
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or PIO
Source

[/URL][/P]
Source[/P]