merrion street

Minister of State for European Affairs, Helen McEntee TD, was in Luxembourg today to attend a meeting of EU Foreign Ministers. At the FAC, Ministers discussed the EU Global Strategy, CFSP Effectiveness and Sudan. Ministers also had a productive discussion with the Foreign Minister of Jordan.

Speaking from Luxembourg, the Minister said:

"Ireland and our EU partners recognise and greatly appreciate the stabilising role that Jordan plays in the Middle East region.

At the Council, EU Foreign Ministers examined the effectiveness of the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy and discussed ways in which we can ensure greater unity, coherence and consistency in the EU’s external action. Enhancing our effectiveness will allow us to respond to future foreign and security challenges in a more flexible and strategic way.

Ministers also discussed the EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy, following the publication of an assessment report on the progress made since its launch three years ago. My EU colleagues and I congratulated the High Representative, Frederica Mogherini, on the Strategy’s achievements and we look forward to continuing to advance all five strands of the Strategy.  

My colleagues and I welcomed the EU Statement on the situation in Sudan. We condemned the use of violence against civilians and reiterated our strong support to the African Union. As also prescribed by the African Union, we believe that finding a swift consensus that allows the transfer of power to a civilian-led authority remains the priority."