The situation in Iraq, Syria, the Middle East, Libya and Ukraine were today discussed in an extraordinary meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels.

Ministers were briefed by the UN special representative of the UN secretary general on the situation in Iraq. Foreign Minister George Vella joined colleagues in expressing commitment to Iraq’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Ministers expressed concern at the deterioration of the security situation and condemned the attacks perpetrated by ISIL and other armed groups. They also expressed concern at the humanitarian situation in the country and massive displacement of civilians.

They welcomed the nomination of Heider Al Abadi as Prime Minister designate, expressing confidence that a new government would be inclusive and able to address the needs and legitimate aspirations of Iraqis.

On the situation in the Middle East, Dr Vella referred to the alarming humanitarian situation in Gaza and stressed the need for a durable ceasefire and for the EU to support such negotiations. He called for the EU to play a more robust role for a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the conflict to be found, building on lessons learnt from recent efforts.

Dr Vella underlined the fact that the European Union and international actors should give more attention to the younger generation who had no aspirations but to engage in violence.

On Libya, Dr Vella recalled the developments threatening stability in the region. He expressed serious concern that further internecine violence would deteriorate the security of the country and its neighbourhood, opening further possibilities for the establishment of extremist groups, such as ISIS, threatening European Union security. Dr Vella welcomed the first sittings of the newly elected House of Representatives in Tobruk and appealed to all parties in Libya to support its work.

EU Ministers acknowledged the efforts of Libya’s neighbouring countries in helping the country overcome the crisis as well as their solidarity in dealing with displaced persons.

Ministers also discussed the worsening crisis in Eastern Ukraine and its humanitarian impact on the civilian population. The Council called on all parties to support and facilitate the work of international humanitarian organisations in accordance with international humanitarian law and principles.

It reiterated its call on all parties to agree on a ceasefire. Ministers emphasised the need for a political, sustainable solution to the crisis. They were updated on the recovery operation following the downing of the Malaysian airliner MH17 and called for immediate, safe and unrestricted access to the site.

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