EU Foreign Affairs Council to discuss situation in Israel and in the region, Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and developments between Armenia and Azerbaijan

The EU foreign ministers will convene in Luxembourg on 23 October. Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen will represent Finland at the meeting. After the Council meeting, the EU foreign ministers will meet with the foreign ministers of the Central Asian countries.

In its meeting on 23 October, the Foreign Affairs Council will discuss the situation in Israel and in the region.

“We unequivocally condemn the shocking terrorist attack against Israel. The state of Israel has the right to protect its citizens from terrorism in line with international law. Alleviating the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza is of utmost importance. International humanitarian law must be respected and the protection of civilians must be guaranteed. The EU must respond to the situation in a strong and united manner,” says Minister for Foreign Affairs Valtonen.

In their discussion on Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the ministers will focus on the EU’s security commitments to Ukraine.

“It is important for the EU to continue its long-term support for Ukraine and to strengthen the measures already in place,” says Minister for Foreign Affairs Valtonen.

The ministers will also discuss the current situation concerning Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Other topical issues on the agenda include the situation in the Sahel region, tensions between Kosovo and Serbia, and China.