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Tuesday, 26 November 2024 | ||
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Athens News Agency: News in English, 09-02-23Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next ArticleFrom: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/>CONTENTS
[01] EU FM council convenesThe European Union Council of Foreign Ministers convened here on Monday, focusing on the preparation of the Spring EU Summit for dealing with the present world economic crisis, energy issues, climate change and the Union's relations with eastern Europe. Greece was represented at the meeting by Deputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valinakis.Regarding a recovery plan for the Union's economy, a proposal for the funding of a series of energy projects, tabled by the Commission, has not been approved by the council of ministers. It will be further debated at a working groups' level. Valinakis told his counterparts that the catalogue of proposed projects, which would be eventually chosen, must correspond to the principle of geographic balance within the Union, adding that the Commission must take into consideration the need for strengthening the economic and social cohesion of the EU. Valinakis also said inclusion of the Turkey-Greece-Italy (TGI) natural gas pipeline into the catalogue was absolutely necessary. Concerning the upcoming EU Summits of March 1 and March 19-20, Valinakis emphasised the need for keeping up with the Union's coordinated action aimed at the strengthening of the European economy, thus avoiding phenomena of protectionism and securing the necessary stability of the internal market. On the Middle East problem, the Greek minister highlighted the need for reinforcing the Union's presence in the region, securing the unimpeded arrival of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and supporting the reconciliation of Palestinians. On the Western Balkans' European prospects, Valinakis reiterated Greece's support to these prospects. Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article |