Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Marija Pejčinović Burić 17 June 2019 attended a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council (FAC).
Items on the Council’s agenda included the effectiveness of the Common Foreign and Security Policy, implementation of the EU Global Strategy and situation in Sudan
The Council discussed models to improve the effectiveness of the Common Foreign and Security Policy in view of changes on the international scene and geopolitical challenges. The ministers agreed to work in the period ahead on strengthening coherency, consistency and unity so that the EU can be a strong global stakeholder. In regard to foreign policy, the EU and the member states will continue advocating the protection of common values and interests, peace and security, as well as the promotion of international cooperation, democracy and the rule of law.
The discussion on implementing the Global Strategy saw the participation of the defence ministers. Progress in implementing the Global Strategy was analysed in five priority areas: the EU security, resilience, integrated approach to conflicts and crises, cooperation with regions, and global governance for the 21st century. The ministers underlined the importance of working on strengthening multilateralism and a rule-based world order as the best way to promote national and common interests. They welcomed the significant progress made in security and defence, and agreed to continue working on implementing launched initiatives and strengthening the EU’s capacities, its strategic autonomy and cooperation with partners, notably NATO and the UN.
The Council also discussed the situation in Sudan and expressed concern over the deteriorating situation. The ministers stressed the importance of avoiding further escalation of violence and underlined their support for a peaceful and orderly transfer of government and reinstatement of constitutional order. The EU supports the mediation of the African Union aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the crisis, and is prepared to offer political and economic support to Sudan when the transition to a civilian government begins.
The Council briefly reflected on the situation in Venezuela and the Horn of Africa as well as current events in Moldova. The meeting included informal talks with Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Al-Safadi about the situation in Jordan and events in the Middle East.