Foreign Affairs Council, 13/05/2019, 13 May 2019

Main results

Current affairs

On the EU side, there is full determination to do all we can using all the instruments available to us to implement our part of the JCPOA if Iran remains compliant with their part. Federica Mogherini, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

The High Representative and foreign ministers discussed Iran, following the latest announcements related to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the Iran nuclear deal. They recalled their full commitment to the preservation and full implementation of the JCPOA, a key achievement of the global nuclear non-proliferation architecture. They expressed concern at recent declarations by Iran, recalling their rejection of any ultimatum and stressing the importance that Iran continue to abide by the JCPOA, as it has done so far, and as certified 14 times by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). At the same time, they reaffirmed their commitment to deliver on the benefits of the deal for the Iranian people. In this context, they expressed regret at the re-imposition of sanctions by the US following their withdrawal from the JCPOA and underlined their commitment to achieving full operationalisation of the special purpose vehicle, INSTEX.

Ministers also touched on the situation in Venezuela. The High Representative debriefed ministers on the most recent International Contact Group meeting in San Jose, Costa Rica, on 5-6 May. Ministers expressed their concern following the events of 30 April 2019 and the subsequent escalation of tensions, with further repression by the regime against the opposition and members of the National Assembly. They reiterated their support for the International Contact Group as the only format through which a negotiated political solution can be envisaged, as is increasingly recognised by other actors in the region and beyond.

• Venezuela: the Council's response to the crisis (background information)

Foreign ministers also discussed Ukraine, following the results of the Presidential election. They noted the positive signals from the incoming administration, in particular its intention to continue and strengthen the reform implementation process, which they underlined remains key to delivering tangible benefits to the Ukrainian people. They expressed concern at the Russian decree simplifying the issuing of passports in certain areas of Ukraine's Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and reiterated their full support for Ukraine and its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.

Libya

Ministers discussed Libya together with the UNSG Special Representative for Libya Ghassan Salamé, and exchanged views on possible next steps to avoid further escalation in the conflict.

The EU speaks with one voice on Libya. It has clearly stated that the LNA military attack and the subsequent escalation in and around Tripoli constitute a serious threat to international peace and security. We recalled that there is no military solution, but the solution goes through a recommitment to the UN political dialogue which all parties should engage with. Federica Mogherini, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

The Council adopted a statement:

• Foreign Affairs Council statement on Libya (press release, 13/05/2019)

Sahel

Foreign ministers discussed the Sahel, in preparation for the session the following day with EU defence ministers together with foreign and defence ministers from the G5 Sahel countries (Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger). The Council adopted conclusions on the Sahel.

• Council conclusions on the Sahel (press release, 13/05/2019)