EU Foreign Ministers discussed the situation in Syria and Iraq
15 December 2014 News
The EU Foreign Affairs Council focused on the situation in Syria and Iraq. Ministers exchanged views on the crisis in Syria with UN Special Envoy, Staffan de Mistura, who presented a plan to freeze fighting in certain areas of the country as a basis for a broader political process.
Minister Daniel Mitov expressed Bulgaria’s support for the plan and emphasized that the inclusion of the northern Syrian city of Aleppo is particularly important both in terms of the historical significance of the city and in order to prevent a new wave of Syrian refugees, which is of direct interest for Bulgaria.
As regards the situation in Iraq, Ministers pledged their support to the efforts by the Iraqi government in its pursuit of inclusive political process, including the recently reached agreement on sale and redistribution of oil revenues. They discussed also the fight against ISIL / Da'esh, including the implementation of resolution 2178 of the UN Security Council, the measures against foreign fighters and the support for Iraq to improve border control. Foreign Minister Daniel Mitov underscored the need for a EU communication strategy to delegitimize ISIL ideology.
Another main topic on the agenda of the Council was the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and ways to bring a new momentum in relations with the EU. Ministers approved the implementation of the renewed EU approach to Bosnia and Herzegovina, which provides political leaders in the country to make a written commitment to accelerate reforms as a prerequisite for entry into force of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement. Bulgarian Foreign Minister urged the country's leaders to show responsibility and commitment to the European integration. Minister Mitov recalled Bulgaria's position that the accession process of all countries of the region depends on the strict implementation of the necessary conditions.
Ministers also discussed the situation in Ukraine and the messages that the EU High Representative Federica Mogherini will sent to the Ukrainian authorities on her upcoming visit to Kiev on 16 December.
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