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The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Simon Coveney TD, is in Brussels today to attend a meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Ministers.  EU-Africa relations, Strategic Communications, the civilian aspects of the EU’s Common Security and Defence policy and the security aspects of the EU Global Strategy are on the agenda.

Speaking in advance of the meeting, Minister Coveney said:

“I look forward to attending the Foreign Affairs Council which will provide an opportunity to discuss the EU-Africa relations, strategic communications, civilian CSDP and the security and defence aspects of the EU’s Global Strategy.

The discussion on the EU’s relationship with Africa in particular will provide a useful opportunity for an exchange of views with EU Foreign Ministers on how to deepen relations between the EU and Africa. During my recent visit to the Horn of Africa I discussed with regional leaders how best the EU and Africa can work together on common challenges, to address the drivers of instability and conflict, and to promote prosperity and genuine opportunity. I intend to brief my fellow Ministers on the outcome of those meetings.

This discussion also provides an important opportunity to prepare for next month’s high level EU-Africa Summit. I hope the Summit will serve as a clear demonstration of our shared commitment, at the highest levels, to maintain this vital partnership based on the principles of equality, respect and mutual cooperation.

Ministers will also discuss the EU’s strategic communication. Countering disinformation, effectively communicating the EU’s policies and values, and strengthening a pluralistic media environment in the EU’s neighbourhood are important aspects of the EEAS’s communications work. In light of this, several Member States have asked for a discussion on the EU’s strategic communications and I look forward to hearing their views.

The Foreign Affairs Council will also be an opportunity for Ministers to continue discussions on how to make civilian CSDP peacekeeping missions more effective and responsive. While policing, rule of law and civil administration should remain at the heart of civilian CSDP missions, current and future challenges must be taken into account. As one of the leading contributors on civilian CSDP Ireland welcomes this discussion. Ministers and Defence Ministers will also have a discussion on the implementation of the security and defence aspects of the EU Global Strategy”.