site.btaDeputy Foreign Minister Attends EU Foreign Affairs Council Session

Caretaker Deputy Foreign Minister Ivan Kondov attended the regular July session of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, the Foreign Ministry said in a press release on Monday. The meeting focused on Russia's military aggression against Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, and digital diplomacy. Discussions also included an exchange of views with European Investment Bank President Nadia Calviño.

The Council's session commenced with a review of the Russian military aggression in Ukraine. Foreign ministers condemned Russia's lethal assaults on civilian targets, including a children's hospital in Kiev and vital energy infrastructure. The talks centered on the ongoing crisis and the European Union's support efforts. There was a unified appeal for enhanced aid to safeguard civilians, restore power, bolster defence mechanisms, and rebuild the nation.

"Bulgaria continues to support the European Union's joint efforts to assist Ukraine and the Ukrainian population. Having declared participation in recovery projects at the Berlin conference in June, our nation will persist in offering support," Kondov said. He highlighted the need for predictable, sustainable, and long-term assistance in various sectors. Ministers agreed to improve cooperation and dialogue with countries from different regions, as well as with regional and international organisations, to strengthen support for Ukraine and enforce international law and the United Nations Charter.

The foreign ministers also prioritized the Middle East situation and the region's overall security in their discussions.