merrion street

The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr. Simon Coveney TD, is in Brussels today to attend a meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Ministers.

The EU Foreign Affairs Council will discuss the Middle East Peace Process, developments in Moldova and the situation in Venezuela. High Representative Mogherini will host an informal lunch for EU Foreign Ministers and Foreign Ministers from several Arab states.

Speaking in advance of the meeting, the Tánaiste said:

“The Council will once again discuss the Middle East Peace Process. I will urge that the EU takes a strong and proactive role in support of restarting negotiations towards a two state solution. The lunch discussion with Foreign Ministers from the region will provide a good opportunity to get their perspectives on the issues and challenges, as well as wider developments in the Middle East.

Today’s meeting will provide an opportunity for the Council to discuss developments in Moldova. I urge the government of Moldova to swiftly implement vital reforms aimed at addressing corruption and strengthening democratic institutions.

Foreign Ministers will also discuss developments in Venezuela, and how the EU should respond to the deteriorating political, economic and humanitarian situation there, as well as ongoing human rights violations.”