Minister of Foreign Affairs Georg Georgiev participated in the regular monthly meeting of the "Foreign Affairs" Council of the European Union, which took place today in Luxembourg. In the hall where the meeting was held, the atmosphere was tense, given the series of complex issues that needed to be discussed. The topics on the agenda were of key importance for European foreign policy.
One of the main points of discussion was the Russian aggression against Ukraine. On this issue, key to the stability of the continent, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andriy Sybyha also participated in the meeting. The ministers reviewed the latest events and confirmed the European Union's determination to continue supporting Kyiv in its efforts. The High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, informed her colleagues about her recent visit to Kyiv, as well as the progress on European commitments in the areas of security, military training and financial support for Ukraine.
Within the framework of his speech, Minister Georgiev clearly stated Bulgaria's position. He emphasized that our country consistently supports the efforts of the European Union to achieve a just and lasting peace, based on the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. The importance of preserving transatlantic unity in the face of challenges was once again confirmed.
In addition, Bulgaria expressed support for the accelerated adoption of the nineteenth package of sanctions against Russia. In this context, emphasis was also placed on initiatives to create a Special Tribunal for crimes committed by the Russian military.
In addition, Minister Georgiev drew attention to the need for increased cooperation between the European Union and NATO. The aim is to strengthen the defense capabilities of the Eastern Flank and the Black Sea region. He noted that the new European Union Strategy for the Black Sea Region provides an opportunity to implement joint projects aimed at increasing regional security, stability and connectivity.
In another highlight of the meeting, the ministers discussed relations between the European Union and the countries of the Indo-Pacific region. They discussed preparations for the upcoming Fourth EU-IPR Ministerial Forum, which will be held in Brussels between November 20 and 21, 2025. Bulgaria expressed support for an in-depth partnership with key countries in the region, such as India, Australia, Japan and Vietnam, in a number of key areas. Among them stood out the areas of security, energy, digitalization and sustainable development.
Along with these important issues, the situation in the Middle East was also discussed. The ministers welcomed the agreement reached for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Minister Georgiev emphasized that Bulgaria supports all diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.