site.btaForeign Minister Kondov Attends EU Foreign Affairs Council Meeting

Foreign Minister Ivan Kondov represented Bulgaria at the regular meeting of the European Union's Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said here on Monday. This was the first meeting chaired by the new EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas.

Key Topics on the Agenda

The foreign ministers discussed several critical issues related to EU security and foreign policy. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, typically joining via video link, provided an update on the conflict in Ukraine. The ministers focused on increasing the level of EU military support for Ukraine, including EUR 6.6 billion in aid through the European Peace Facility. Additional plans include a second installment of a loan funded by frozen Russian assets in April 2025 and increased support for Ukraine's defence industry.

The Council also adopted new restrictive measures against Russia, paving the way for a 15th package of sanctions. A framework to counter Russia's hybrid and destabilizing activities was also introduced. Minister Kondov underscored the importance of EU unity and stressed Bulgaria's support for strengthened cooperation and defence aid for the Ukrainian armed forces.

Syria and Post-Assad Transition

Another central topic was Syria, following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime after 13 years of civil war. Kondov described the event as historic and called for the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2254, advocating a political transition inclusive of all segments of Syrian society. He stressed the need for an active EU role in shaping Syria’s future.

EU-Israel and Palestinian Relations

High Representative Kallas updated the ministers on the planned EU-Israel Association Council meeting in February 2025 and the inaugural High-Level Dialogue with the Palestinian Authority in March 2025.

Georgia’s Crisis and EU Integration

The Council addressed the ongoing crisis in Georgia, following the government’s decision to pause its EU membership application. Kondov condemned the violent suppression of protesters and criticized the suspension of Georgia’s EU accession process, calling it a step against the will of the Georgian people. "The EU must remain united and press for dialogue to bring Georgia back on the path to integration," Kondov said.

Bilateral Meetings

During the Foreign Affairs Council, Kondov held bilateral talks with High Representative Kaja Kallas and Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Alexandra Papadopoulou.