Support to Ukraine

During a discussion on Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, Deputy Minister Ignacy Niemczycki stressed that the European Union should urgently approve a EUR 90 billion loan for Ukraine. He also spoke in favour of adopting the 20th package of sanctions against Russia and beginning work on the next one.

The deputy head of Polish diplomacy stressed that the EU should unlock payments to member states from the European Peace Facility and open the “Fundamentals” cluster in the EU’s accession negotiations with Ukraine as soon as possible.

He also noted the need to support reintegration of Ukraine’s veterans and outlined Poland’s activity in this area. Deputy Minister Niemczycki also referred to the Veteran’s Centre in Zhytomyr, which offers rehabilitation and psychological support to more than 11,000 patients annually. He added that 16 such centres are to open this year.

Situation in the Middle East, the Caucasus, and Sudan

The top diplomats also discussed the tensions in the Middle East, the Armenia—Azerbaijan peace process, and the constantly deteriorating humanitarian situation in Sudan. 

As to the Middle East, the ministers agreed that unblocking the Strait of Hormuz and developing a lasting ceasefire are of paramount importance, expressing their readiness to involve the EU in the process.

The vast majority of participants criticised the continued establishment of illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank and endorsed the EU’s firm response.

The ministers expect a boost in bilateral relations in view of the upcoming, first ever EU–Armenia summit in Yerevan scheduled for 4–5 May this year. 

Photo: Council of EU - Newsroom