Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2019
153. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the matters discussed under the specific foreign policy issues agenda item at the June 2019 Foreign Affairs Council meeting; and if Iran, Israel and Palestine were included in the discussions. [28006/19]
View answerAt the June EU Foreign Affairs Council, Foreign Ministers discussed the EU Global Strategy, CFSP Effectiveness and Sudan. Minister of State for European Affairs, Helen McEntee TD, participated in the meeting.
Ministers also had a productive exchange of views on regional issues with the Jordanian Foreign Minister, Ayman Safadi, including the Middle East Peace Process, the Gulf, Iran and Syria. Ireland and our EU partners recognise and greatly appreciate the stabilising role that Jordan plays in the Middle East region.
At the Council, Ministers examined the effectiveness of the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy. Ministers discussed ways in which the EU can ensure greater unity, coherence and consistency in its external action. Enhancing our effectiveness will allow us to respond to future foreign and security challenges in a more flexible and strategic way.
Ministers discussed the EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy, following the publication of a report assessing the progress made since its launch three years ago. Ireland looks forward to continuing to advance all five strands of the Strategy.
Finally, Foreign Ministers welcomed the EU Statement on Sudan. The Council condemned the use of violence against civilians and reiterated strong support to the African Union. The priority for Sudan is to find a swift consensus that allows the transfer of power to a civilian-led authority.
