The China talks of EU top diplomats focused on cooperation prospects. "Poland believes that the relationship with China should be built on the EU's China strategy of July 2016, in other words that it be practical, pragmatic and respecting the agreed rules," ‎said the Polish foreign minister. Speaking about challenges in relations with China, he emphasised the key role played by EU unity.

The Gymnich format also included a meeting between the foreign ministers of EU member states and candidate countries. A joint session looked at challenges cooperation with China poses for the EU and its candidate countries. "The Berlin Process Summit in Poznan this July will be a good opportunity to find out what the countries of the region expect of the EU," said the Polish foreign minister.

On the sidelines of the meeting Minister Jacek Czaputowicz spoke with Kosovo's First Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister  Behgjet Pacolli. The officials discussed the Serbia-Kosovo relationship and prospects for cooperation with the EU.

While in Bucharest, the Polish foreign policy chief gave interviews to Romania's financial daily Ziarul Financiar and Digi24 TV channel.

Held every six months, the Gymnich format is an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers. It offers an opportunity for a more open discussion and strategic reflection, which facilitates reaching consensus within the EU at a later stage.  The format takes its name from Gymnich castle near Bonn, where the first such talks tok place in 1974.

 

MFA Press Office

Photo Tymon Markowski / MSZ