EU – Baltic States, Latvia, Legislation

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At the meeting, the ministers and their representatives discussed the topical issues of cooperation between both regions as well as the latest events in Syria, Libya, Iraq, the Sahel region and the Middle East Peace Process. The participants paid particular attention to the crisis in Syria and the developments in the Middle East Peace Process. Representatives of the EU and the League of Arab States welcomed the formation of the new government of the Palestinian National Authority, stressing the importance of renewing the Middle East peace talks with the goal of implementing the two-state solution. The ministers disapproved the decision of Israel regarding building of new settlements in East Jerusalem and the West Bank.

The participants were critical about the presidential elections in Syria, which took place on June 3. They agreed that the elections could not be considered as the right political step at improving the democratic, security and humanitarian situation in Syria. The necessity to return to negotiations for finding a political solution in Syria was stressed.

Representatives of the European Union described the situation in the Ukraine, emphasizing its territorial integrity and sovereignty and were highly critical of the actions of Russia, which contravened the generally accept norms of international law.

The meeting was concluded with the adoption of Joint Declaration, which outlines prospects of cooperation on regional issues as well as stresses the threats of global terrorism and extremism. Serious concerns were also raised about the growing risks of illegal immigration.

On the sidelines of the ministerial meeting, Pildegovics met with Riad al-Malki – the reconfirmed Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Palestinian National Authority government. The parties discussed the role of the new Palestinian consensus government, opportunities of advancement in the Middle East Peace Process and the overall situation in the region.