State Secretary for Political Affairs Frano Matušić on 20 July 2023 in Brussels attended a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council (FAC).
The Council confirmed the EU’s resolve to continue supporting Ukraine in the context of Russian aggression, with special emphasis on long-term commitment to security and resilience, support for Ukraine’s Peace Formula and cooperation with third countries in light of the global impact of Russia’s aggression. Ministers also discussed food security in light of Russia’s withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative.
Matušić reflected on this week’s UN discussion on Ukraine, underscoring Croatia’s commitment to comprehensive support for Ukraine and adding that in October Zagreb would host an international donor conference on humanitarian mine action in Ukraine. He said Croatia backed brining perpetrators before the International Court of Justice and underlined support for Ukraine’s reconstruction. The state secretary reflected on Russia’s decision to step down from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which resulted in a rise of global food prices and grain supply insecurity, posing great challenges for many third countries. In that context, Matušić highlighted the role of the EU Solidarity Lanes and reiterated Croatia’s readiness to utilize its port and railway infrastructure for the import of Ukrainian grain.
Ministers informally exchanged views with US State Secretary Antony Blinken on how to strengthen the EU-US relations and work together on global challenges. Matušić stressed the importance of transatlantic unity and the EU-US alliance in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. In addition, he highlighted the importance of the EU-US cooperation and coordination concerning the Western Balkans with the aim of supporting regional stability, resolving outstanding issues and encouraging EU-oriented reforms.
The Council also exchanged views on the EU-Turkey relations and the EU-CELAC summit of 17-18 July.
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