Video conference of foreign affairs ministers, 15 May 2020

Main results

EU ministers of foreign affairs today held a video conference, chaired by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell.

We had a very good and important discussion on the Middle East Peace Process. The resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains a priority and in the strategic interest of the European Union. We stand ready to help. Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

Ministers first had a comprehensive discussion on the Middle East Peace Process in the context of the formation of a new government in Israel. Ministers expressed their willingness to work comprehensively and constructively with the new government once it is sworn in, but also reaffirmed their support for a negotiated two state solution.

Foreign affairs ministers then had a discussion on the Southern Neighbourhood and situation in the wider Middle East, in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. In this context ministers expressed their concern about the socio-economic fallout of the pandemic, and agreed that the current crisis is an opportunity to reflect on the EU's relations with the region in the medium and long term.

Then ministers approved a statement about the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean.

• Statement of the EU Foreign Ministers on the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean (Press release, 15 May 2020)

Finally ministers were informed about the preparations for:

• the fourth Brussels Conference on the Future of Syria and the Region that will take place on 30 June in virtual format, and
• a donor pledging Video Conference for the Venezuela displacement crisis on 26 May, that will be co-chaired by the European Union and Spain.