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Outcomes of the Foreign Affairs Councils – 11 November and 9 December 2019
15 January 2020
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
At a Glance
Issue Summary
Christopher Pincher provides an update on the outcomes of two Foreign Affairs Councils held in November and December 2019.
Action Requested
The minister is informing Parliament about the decisions made at these meetings, including sanctions extensions for Venezuela, framework adoption for restrictive measures against Turkey, and discussions on various international issues such as Iran, Afghanistan, Sudan, Libya, Ukraine, Hong Kong, EU-Africa relations, and human rights promotion.
Key Facts
- Federica Mogherini chaired the November Foreign Affairs Council (FAC), with Josep Borrell chairing the December FAC.
- The United Kingdom stressed support for peaceful protest in Hong Kong during both meetings.
- Ministers discussed Iran's non-compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA) and the importance of INSTEX.
- The UK highlighted the need for peace talks and reduction in Taliban violence in Afghanistan.
- EU committed to providing financial aid for Sudan's civilian transitional government.
- Council extended sanctions on Venezuela for a year due to undermining democracy, rule of law, and human rights.
- Framework adopted for restrictive measures against Turkey regarding hydrocarbons explorations in the Eastern Mediterranean.
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