Special attention was paid to the threats posed by terrorism and extremism, and to the need for a political solution to regional conflicts. The agenda also included migration, terrorism, humanitarian assistance, protection of civilians, and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The ministers advocated continued cooperation and backed efforts to find a common response to regional challenges in the economic, political, environmental, and security areas.

According to Minister Czaputowicz, combatting terrorism and migration problems is where the Union sees potential for working together with Arab countries. “We appreciate the existing collaboration between the EU and Arab countries in different fields, and we look forward to a greater involvement in counter-terrorism on the part of the EU and League of Arab States ,” said the Polish foreign policy chief, highlighting the danger posed by Daesh transforming into a global terrorist organization. “This challenge is new to all of us,” he added.

Moreover, Minister Czaputowicz presented Poland’s position on migration, putting an emphasis on the importance of addressing the root causes of this phenomenon.

Referring to regional threats, the foreign minister stressed the need for joint efforts to bolster regional cooperation so as to ensure peace and security in the Middle East. He informed his interlocutors about a ministerial devoted to this issue which will be organized together with the United States in Warsaw. “A more stable Middle East is critical to global security. We are confident that the conference will help to create a positive vision for the region,” underscored Minister Czaputowicz. He also briefed the meeting about Poland’s stance on Syria, pointing out that a political solution to the conflict should have primacy and that humanitarian measures should be adopted for Syrian refugees. Speaking about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the minister endorsed a two-state solution, drawing attention to the favourable context resulting from a détente between Israel and Arab states.

While in Brussels, Minister Jacek Czaputowicz also held bilateral meetings with the ministers from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Yemen, Palestine, Lebanon, and Sudan.

Today’s event came ahead of the first ever summit of EU and League of Arab States heads of state and government that will take place in the Egyptian city of Sharm El Sheikh on 24-25 February.

 

MFA Press Office

Photo Tymon Markowski / MSZ