State Secretary Gabrič attends EU Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Lviv on Europe Day
EU Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Lviv | Author MZEZ
At the invitation of the Ukrainian side, the informal meeting was also attended by the Foreign Ministers of the United Kingdom, Norway, Moldova and North Macedonia.
On the occasion of Europe Day, and after 1170 days of war, ministers symbolically reaffirmed their unity and continued support and solidarity with Ukraine. In their discussions on Russia's aggression against Ukraine, they focused on diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, beginning with a full and unconditional ceasefire; increasing military and defence support; maintaining pressure on Russia through sanctions and ensuring accountability for the crime of aggression and international crimes and other atrocities committed in Ukraine.
State Secretary Gabrič: "Today's meeting in Lviv is a demonstration of our support for Ukraine and of our shared commitment to peace and to Ukraine's European future”. She stressed that convening a meeting on Europe Day sends a powerful message of steadfast support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and its European path. She went on to condemn the ongoing Russian attacks, which continue to claim numerous civilian casualties, and the persistent disregard for international humanitarian law. She reaffirmed that Slovenia would continue to provide assistance to Ukraine.
Following the informal meeting, ministers convened for the Core Group on the Establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. The meeting concluded with the adoption of a joint declaration, in the presence of the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, and Commissioner Michael McGrath. Slovenia advocated for justice and accountability, which are essential for upholding the international rule of law. A world that tolerates impunity cannot be stable or secure. The establishment of effective accountability mechanisms is vital not only to address past violations of international law but also to deter future ones. There can be no lasting peace without calling the perpetrators of international crimes to account.