site.btaBulgaria at EU Foreign Affairs Council Meeting in Brussels

Bulgarian Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev represented Bulgaria at a regular meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council with Foreign Affairs Ministers in Brussels on Tuesday, Georgiev’s Ministry said in a press release.

The Council discussed Russia's war against Ukraine and the latest developments in the Middle East and in Syria.

At the beginning of the meeting, the participants had an an informal exchange of views via videoconference with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.

Within the discussion, the chief Bulgarian diplomat stressed his country’s consistent support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. Georgiev spoke of the need of intensified diplomatic and economic pressure in response to Russia’s aggression.

Regarding the Middle East crisis, Bulgaria’s Foreign Minister stressed the need of revisiting the truce and releasing the hostages and voiced concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. He expressed support for the diplomatic efforts of the US and Qatar and of the other regional partners.

On Syria, Georgiev backed an inclusive political process guaranteeing the rights of all citizens and communities in the country and respecting Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

The Council adopted the EU’s 17th package of sanctions against Russia and agreed to lift economic sanctions on Syria.