Foreign and European Affairs Minister Gordan Grlić Radman 11 November 2019 in Brussels attended a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC).
The Council discussed Afghanistan, recalling that direct intra-Afghan talks are the only way to achieve a sustainable solution, while the resumption of US-Taliban talks could constitute a first step towards the relaunch of the intra-Afghan negotiations. The Council also highlighted the need to reduce violence and to create an environment that allows for the preservation of the rights and democratic advancements of the country, including the rights of women, children and minorities.
Grlić Radman underscored the issue of migrations, warning about the increased pressure along the Western Balkans route, notably the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. “Most migrants along that route come from Afghanistan, so that aspect need to be taken into account in regard to Afghanistan. I would also wish to point out that Croatia has been contributing to the security and stabilization of Afghanistan through the RSM, where it now forms the 11th contingent, but also through development aid”, the minister said.
The Council discussed the security situation in the Gulf region. They reflected on how the EU could support and encourage further de-escalation of tensions, in particular through initiatives allowing for ownership from the region itself. The ministers also discussed Iran, reiterating their commitment to the JCPoA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) and their call to Iran to return to full compliance with the agreement, which remains crucial for both European and regional security.
The EU foreign ministers had an exchange of views with Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok. They reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to support the civilian transitional government, as well as the readiness to provide financial and humanitarian aid for the transition, including support of economic reform.
The Council briefly reflected on the situations in Venezuela, Libya, Syria, Sahel and Hong Kong. It also adopted the framework for sanctions in response to Turkey’s illegal drilling in the Eastern Mediterranean.