Press release concerning the participation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs at the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ioannis Kasoulides, took part in the session of the EU Foreign Affairs Council that took place today in Brussels. Participating Foreign Ministers discussed the situation in Syria and in Libya, developments in Eastern Europe, as well as other current regional and international affairs.
During the discussion on Syria, Mr. Kasoulides referred to the current developments, emphasizing that the people of the country are still suffering, while the crisis continues to affect also the EU itself. The Minister made special reference to the increasing flows of refugees and migrants from Syria that Cyprus is facing, as a result of the protracted crisis. He emphasized the need to consider a more realistic EU approach to the issue of humanitarian aid. Referring to the political process, the Foreign Minister reiterated the support of Cyprus within the framework set out in UN Security Council Resolution 2254, in cooperation with the EU and other regional actors. He noted that the international community should support the efforts of the Syrian people, as this is the only way to achieve lasting stability and reconciliation in the country.
In his comments with regard to developments in Libya, Minister Kasoulides stressed the need to draw up a plan with clear timetables, for the holding of free and credible elections as soon as possible. He stressed that it is vital to maintain the political process under the auspices of the UN. At the same time, the Foreign Minister noted that the crisis in Libya should be viewed in the light of broader geopolitical developments, stressing that the perpetuation of the current status quo benefits those who aim to maintain their military presence in the country. These are the same well known actors, he continued, who are trying to strengthen their geostrategic footprint in other areas, such as the Eastern Mediterranean.
The Foreign Ministers also discussed the security situation in Eastern Europe and exchanged views via teleconference with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. Speaking during the relevant discussion, Mr. Kasoulides expressed concern about tensions in Eastern Europe, stressing the importance of the EU maintaining its unity. At the same time, he stressed the need to exhaust all possibilities for dialogue, in order to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Prior to the start of the Council, Mr. Kasoulides hosted a working breakfast for his counterparts with the participation as guest of honour of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait, Sheikh Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Sabah. Over breakfast, the Foreign Ministers had a useful and productive exchange of views on EU-Kuwait relations, EU-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) ties, as well as other topical regional and international issues.
The Foreign Minister had the opportunity also to meet with the EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy, Mr. Josep Borrell, as well as with the Estonian Foreign Minister, Ms Eva-Marie Liimets. Mr. Kasoulides is due to conclude his round of contacts later today with a bilateral meeting with the EU Commissioner for Enlargement, Mr. Olivér Várhelyi.
Tomorrow, Tuesday, Mr. Kasoulides will participate in the work of the General Affairs Council, while in the afternoon he will meet with the Cypriot Commissioner for Health, Ms. Stella Kyriakidou.