The two-day "Gymnich" gathering in the Polish capital focused on European defense cooperation, relations with the United States, and foreign policy challenges arising from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, as well as broader security concerns, officials said.
On the first day, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy joined the discussions.
According to Poland’s foreign ministry, most EU member states and the UK spoke with one voice in reaffirming their steadfast support for Ukraine, including efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace in the country.
Participants agreed on the need to maintain pressure on Russia, including through tougher sanctions. The ministers also emphasized the UK’s role as a key security partner in Europe.
“I am delighted that I was in a position to include Britain back in the European conversation in this format,” said Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski.
"We hope that this brings closer the day when we have a signed document on collaboration between the European Union and the UK in the security field, not only in terms of defense, but also internal security. We do need each other,” he added, as cited by the Polish foreign ministry.
The talks highlighted the importance of close cooperation with the UK on foreign, security and defense policy, including the need for a formal Security and Defence Partnership, according to officials.
The Gymnich meeting is an informal gathering of EU foreign ministers, held twice a year under the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union since 1974. It takes its name from Schloss Gymnich in Germany, where the first such meeting was held.
(mp/gs)
Source: MSZ/X/@PolandMFA/@POLAND25EU/@sikorskiradek
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