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On 20 February, Micheál Martin T.D. – Tánaiste – Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, will attend a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels.

In the week of the one-year anniversary of Russia’s illegal and immoral invasion of Ukraine, the Council will meet with the Foreign Minister of Ukraine, Dmytro Kuleba to discuss the EU’s support to Ukraine, including a tenth sanctions package. Ministers will also discuss Climate and Energy Diplomacy as they look towards ensuring a successful outcome to COP28, consider the EU’s response to developments in Afghanistan and Iran, and meet with the Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Nicu Popescu.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, the Tánaiste said:

“The Council’s discussion is particularly important, given it takes place in the week of the one-year anniversary of Russia’s barbaric, full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine’s defence of its sovereignty and our common values has been remarkable. The EU’s support for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people remains unwavering, and we will continue to work together to push back against Russia’s aggression.”

On Afghanistan, the Tánaiste said:

“The ongoing assault by the Taliban on the human rights of Afghan people, particularly women and girls, is reprehensible. Our discussion will be an important opportunity to discuss the role that the EU can play to support the people of Afghanistan, uphold the rights of women, girls and minorities, and provide life-saving humanitarian relief, given the dire situation in the country.” 

On Iran, the Tánaiste commented:

“I remain deeply concerned by the ongoing developments in Iran, including the violent repression of anti-government protests, the deteriorating human rights situation and Iran’s supply of arms to Russia. Ireland continues to be fully part of the united EU response to these developments and at our meeting, we will discuss further sanctions on those responsible for grave human rights violations.”

ENDS