Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 February 2019
68. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the issues discussed at the recent Foreign Affairs Council; the outcome of such discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8894/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraI attended the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels on 18 February.
Foreign Ministers had an exchange of views on the situation in the Horn of Africa. Acknowledging the positive dynamics, Ministers called for increased EU engagement in the region.
On the occasion of the fifth anniversary of Maidan, Ministers stressed EU solidary with Ukraine and support for the reform process there. We also discussed the situation in the Azov Sea. Looking ahead to the upcoming elections, Ministers emphasised the importance of these taking place in a free, fair and transparent manner, in compliance with international standards.
Ministers also had an exchange of views on developments in Syria, looking ahead to the Brussels III Conference in March, which will take stock of the humanitarian and political situation. High Representative Mogherini outlined the conference will provide a space in which to engage with Syrian civil society, with a special focus on women. Ireland continues to support UN Special Envoy Pedersen and his efforts to bring about a Syrian-owned and Syrian-led political solution to the conflict, and welcomes the upcoming conference.
High Representative Mogherini welcomed the entry into force of the Prespa Agreement, marking the official name change from the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to the Republic of North Macedonia. She debriefed Ministers on her meeting with President Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo. She informed Ministers of the consensus reached on restrictive measures on Belarus and referred to possible EU engagement with Belarus within the framework of Eastern Partnership.
There was also an informal lunch discussion on Venezuela. Ministers welcomed the establishment of the International Contact Group and the High Representative debriefed on its first meeting. There was also an exchange of views on the deteriorating humanitarian situation.
The Council adopted Conclusions on Yemen, EU Climate Diplomacy and EU Priorities on Human Rights in Multilateral Fora.
