site.btaEU Chief Diplomats Discuss Resolute Concerted Action in Response to North Korea

Tallinn, September 7 (BTA) - Tension in the Korean Peninsula and the threats to global security after DPRK's sixth nuclear test topped the agenda of the first panel of the Informal Meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Ministers (Gymnich) in Tallinn, attended by Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ekaterina Zaharieva.

The EU's chief diplomat Federica Mogherini suggested that the foreign ministers consider new, tougher EU sanctions with the smallest possible impact on North Korea's population. They concurred that the only way to stop Pyongyang's nuclear programme is by peaceful means.

Bulgaria and the other EU Member States strongly condemned DPRK's actions, including the September 3 nuclear test, which pose a direct threat to international security.

On Friday the Gymnich meeting continues with a discussion of the Middle East peace process and the Foreign Affairs Council's working methods. The prevention of, and fight against, radicalization and violent extremism will be discussed with the EU candidate countries.