State Secretary Metelko-Zgombić participates in last EU affairs ministers’ videoconference under German presidency

State Secretary for Europe Andreja Metelko-Zgombić participated in the last videoconference of EU affairs ministers under the German presidency, held in the General Affairs Council configuration

State Secretary for Europe Andreja Metelko-Zgombić participated in the last videoconference of EU affairs ministers under the German presidency, held in the General Affairs Council configuration. 

The ministers exchanged views on the upcoming European Council meeting, where EU leaders will discuss further COVID-19 response, climate change, security and external relations. Metelko-Zgombić underscored the importance of collective efforts in fighting the pandemic and ensuring access to vaccine for all EU citizens. Concerning climate change, the state secretary said Croatia supported the proposal to reduce greenhouse gas emission by at least 55% by 2030, while at the same time taking into account the principles of justness, solidarity, efficiency ratio and different national circumstances. Finally, Metelko-Zgombić underlined that a strong transatlantic partnership was crucial for our common security, stability and progress.

The ministers then discussed the status of EU-UK relations, expressing support for chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier’s efforts. At the same time, they agreed it was necessary to prepare urgent measures in case of no deal and continue pushing for the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement.

Additionally, the German presidency informed the ministers about the EU’s legal priorities in 2021 and policy priorities for the 2020-2024 period. The Commission reported on the European Democracy Action Plan. 

At the end of the conference, Metelko-Zgombić thanked the German presidency for its commitment and achievements in the second half of 2020, expressing support and best wishes to the upcoming Portuguese presidency.

Press releases