Convened in Brussels on 13 July 2020 by the High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, the Foreign Affairs Council met to discuss the EU’s cooperation with Turkey and relations between the EU and the Latin America and Caribbean region in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the debate on Turkey, the ministers discussed its recent activities in the Exclusive Economic Zone of Cyprus, the announced drilling on the Greek continental shelf, and violations of Greece’s airspace and territorial waters. Minister Jacek Czaputowicz expressed his solidarity with Greece and Cyprus and supported the mediation efforts of High Representative Josep Borrell.

“Turkey remains an important partner for the EU on issues such as security and migration, and differences of opinion between the EU and Turkey need to be addressed through dialogue,” stressed the chief of Polish diplomacy.

With regard to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant crisis on Latin American and Caribbean countries, Minister Czaputowicz underlined that the EU’s assistance for the region is an expression of solidarity but also of the EU’s best interest. “The EU should ensure the effectiveness and visibility of its activities in order not to lose ground to other players,” emphasised the Polish minister of foreign affairs.

In the context of current affairs, the ministers discussed the situation in Libya and Venezuela and the Middle East peace process. Minister Czaputowicz expressed concern about the increasing involvement of external actors in Libya and expressed support for the EU’s diplomatic and operational efforts, pointing out that Poland is present in operation IRINI. Speaking about the Middle East peace process, he expressed hope that the parties will refrain from taking unilateral action, and called for supporting negotiations to reach agreement in line with international law. He also expressed support for the EU’s active diplomatic efforts in Venezuela.

On the eve of the FAC meeting, Minister Jacek Czaputowicz met with his counterparts from France, Spain, Germany, Italy, and High Representative Josep Borrell. They discussed the conflict in Libya, the role of Turkey as well as the situation in Hong Kong and the European Union’s possible response.

Earlier on, Minister Czaputowicz and German Minister Heiko Maas spoke about strengthening cooperation between Poland and Germany and other European partners. “The Union needs a strong and coherent foreign policy which accommodates the interests and priorities of all its members,” said Minister Jacek Czaputowicz.

 

MFA Press Office

Photo: European Union