Tánaiste Simon Harris will say the EU can play a vital role in ramping up humanitarian aid for Gaza and express support for further sanctions on Russia at a meeting of EU Foreign Ministers on Monday.
At the meeting in Luxembourg, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade will discuss a range of issues with fellow foreign ministers, including Russian aggression against Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, and EU-Indo Pacific relations. Other items on the agenda include Moldova, Georgia, and Sudan.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, the Tánaiste said: “We gather at a critical moment for
Ukraine and European security in the face of Russia’s continuing war of aggression. I look forward to hearing from the Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.“I condemn Russia’s ongoing missile attacks on Ukrainian cities and cynical attacks on critical infrastructure ahead of winter.
“I will be taking the opportunity to reiterate Ireland’s steadfast solidarity and support for Ukraine, our support for further sanctions on Russia, as well as our strong support for Ukraine’s EU accession.”
On the situation in the Middle East, the Tánaiste stated: “I welcome the recent announcement of a ceasefire and hostage release agreement. This is a significant achievement and the first step on a road to peace.
“We warmly welcome the release of 20 Israeli hostages after two long years in captivity. This is a moment of hope for them and their families. Every effort must also be made to find and release the bodies of deceased hostages.
“Our focus must now be on preserving the ceasefire and flooding Gaza with desperately needed humanitarian aid.
“I will be emphasising the important role that the EU can play in this regard. The people of Gaza have endured unimaginable suffering. Ireland has announced an additional €6 million in humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza to fund urgent food, medical care and other vital services.”
On Sudan, the Tánaiste said: “Ireland remains deeply concerned by the ongoing and devastating conflict in Sudan. We continue to call for a cessation of hostilities, followed by a permanent, peaceful and inclusive political settlement.
“We remain firmly committed to supporting the Sudanese people by providing vital humanitarian assistance and reiterate that urgent steps must be taken to ensure unhindered humanitarian access across the country.”
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