State Secretary for Political Affairs Frano Matušić participated in the Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels on November 18, 2024. The main topics included Russia's aggression against Ukraine, the Middle East crisis, Georgia, and the Horn of Africa. EU-US relations, particularly in the context of recent elections and the upcoming change in the US administration, were also discussed. On the sidelines, a meeting took place with Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mihai Popșoi.
During the discussion on Ukraine, it was confirmed that in the current geopolitical context, the European Union must remain prepared to continue and even increase comprehensive support for Ukraine, considering the intensified Russian attacks on critical Ukrainian infrastructure and the direct involvement of third parties in the conflict. Matušić endorsed efforts to support Ukraine ahead of the challenging winter period, including through the European Peace Facility (EPF), accelerating work to strengthen military capabilities and defence production within the EU, and cooperating with Ukraine's defence industry. He emphasized that Croatia has provided substantial military and other assistance to Ukraine, which will continue in the future.
In discussions about the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, the importance of continuing work on de-escalation, preventing the spillover of the conflict into the broader region, and intensifying efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to the civilian population in Gaza was highlighted. The need for ongoing financial and humanitarian assistance to Lebanon's population was also emphasized. Matušić expressed Croatia’s support for efforts in these areas, as well as for current international activities aimed at achieving a lasting political resolution to the conflict. He also underlined the necessity of further engagement to secure the unconditional release of all hostages.
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