The EU Foreign Affairs Council will discuss the post-Cotonou framework1, Libya and the Middle East Peace Process. EU High Representative Mogherini will host an informal lunch for Foreign Ministers with the Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
Speaking in advance of the meeting, the Tánaiste said:
“This year will see the EU and partner countries in Africa, the Caribbean and Pacific negotiating a successor agreement to the Cotonou Agreement. Ireland sees this as a good opportunity to re-energise the partnerships that we, as the European Union, have with African, Caribbean and Pacific countries – partnerships based on shared interests and geared towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
The Council will also discuss the situation in Libya. Ireland supports the formation of a functioning government under the framework of the Libyan Political Agreement. A political solution, that is Libyan owned and led, remains the only way forward for the people of Libya. The situation of migrants and refugees in Libya remains a serious cause for concern and I condemn all human rights violations and abuses. Ireland reiterates its full support for Special Representative Salamé, and his efforts to implement the UN Action Plan for Libya.
I welcome the discussion on the Middle East Peace process, which will provide an opportunity for the Council to reaffirm its commitment to a two-state solution. Following my recent visit to Israel and Palestine, I will urge that the EU be more active in support of restarting negotiations towards a two state solution and that we offer assistance to the US in making this a success. I also look forward to the discussion with President Abbas.”