29-05-2013 - Udenrigsanliggender
Syria: EU reviews developments and EU policy
On 27 May, European Union foreign ministers adopted conclusions on Syria and issued a declaration on matters relating to the restrictive measures against that country. They also welcomed the outcome of the high-level donor conference for development in support of the plan for the sustainable recovery of Mali.
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Syria
The Council discussed the latest developments with respect to the Syrian crisis and repeated its call for an end to all violence. It also reiterated the urgent need for a political solution to the conflict and welcomed the joint US-Russia call for a peace conference on Syria to promote a political process based on the principles included in the Geneva communiqué of 30 June 2012.
The Council also agreed on matters relating to the renewal of EU sanctions against Syria. It agreed to adopt restrictive measures in a number of areas upon expiry of the current sanctions regime. It also took note of commitments by member states concerning the possible export of arms to Syria. Specifically, these arms would go to the Syrian National Coalition for Opposition and Revolutionary Forces and would be intended for the protection of civilians. Member states will not proceed at this stage with the delivery of the equipment.
The Council will review its position before 1 August 2013 on the basis of a report by the High Representative, after having consulted the UN Secretary-General, on the developments relating to the US-Russia initiative and on the undertakings of the Syrian parties.
The EU is the largest humanitarian donor for the Syrian crisis. The bulk of the funds is used to provide food assistance, shelters and emergency healthcare.
Council conclusions on Syria – 27 May 2013 (pdf)
Council declaration on Syria - 27 May 2013 (pdf)
Remarks by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton following the Foreign Affairs Council – 27 May 2013 (pdf)
The European Union and Syria – Factsheet, 22 April 2013 (pdf)
EU External Action Service website on Syria
Mali
The Council discussed the latest events and was encouraged by the efforts made by the Malian authorities to accelerate the implementation of the transition roadmap
Council conclusions on Mali (pdf)
Other topics
Ministers also prepared the discussion on defence matters which the heads of state or government are expected to have at the European Council meeting in December 2013.
On Afghanistan, the EU police mission in Afghanistan (EUPOL Afghanistan) was extended until 31 December 2014.
EU police mission in Afghanistan extended (pdf)
See also: