Foreign Affairs Council calls for immediate truce in Libya
13 May 2019 NewsRecent developments in Libya and the Sahel, the situation in Venezuela, and Iran’s decision to stop fulfilling part of its commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action were in the focus of attention of the Foreign Affairs Council meeting which took place in Brussels today. Bulgaria was represented by its Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ekaterina Zaharieva
The top diplomats of the EU discussed the situation in Libya, confirming the Union’s deep concern about the escalation as a result of the offensive undertaken by the Libyan National Army towards the capital Tripoli. Also participating in the discussion was Ghassan Salamé, special envoy of the UN Secretary General, who informed the attending ministers of his current efforts and his expectations about the further development of the situation. The Foreign Affairs Council approved a statement on Libya, calling for an immediate truce and engagement of the sides the conflict in political dialog under UN auspices, aimed at achieving a comprehensive political solution to the crisis. The Council also discussed the risks involved in any further deepening of the conflict, including the possibility of an increased immigration pressure on Europe.
The foreign ministers also reviewed the situation in the Sahel and the relations between the EU and the countries of the region (Burkina Faso, Mauritania, Mali, Niger and Chad). They reconfirmed the EU’s commitment to help the region by all means at its disposal in the framework of its integrated approach. At the same time, they expressed their expectation that the countries of the Sahel would do their utmost to fulfill their commitments as undertaken, and encouraged them to step up their regional cooperation within the framework of the G-5 initiative..
The foreign ministers of the 28 also reviewed current development in matters such as the crisis in Venezuela and the work of the International Contact Group and the decision of Iran to stop fulfilling part of its commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.
We share the common concern about Iran’s decision and the conviction that issuing ultimatums is counterproductive. The EU must remain engaged with the implementation of the JCPOA, which is of key importance for the global non-proliferation architecture and Europe’s security, was the conclusion of the ministers.
Regarding the deteriorating situation in Venezuela, Bulgaria’s position remains unchanged: it is necessary to seek a peaceful and democratic solution to the crisis by conducting free and fair presidential elections. The systematic violation of human rights perpetrated by the Maduro regime must be condemned in no uncertain terms. The immunity and constitutional powers of the members of parliament must be honored in full.