Minister Grlić Radman attends FAC: The importance of a unified, responsible, long-term oriented EU response

Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman participated in the meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) of the European Union, held in Luxembourg on Tuesday, 21 April 2026.

During the meeting, ministers discussed Russia's aggression against Ukraine, including an exchange of views via videoconference with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Andrii Sybiha. The discussion reaffirmed the importance of continuing strong and consistent support for Ukraine, as well as the European Union's sustained political, financial, military and humanitarian engagement. Grlić Radman underlined that Croatia will continue to support Ukraine and emphasised the added value of Member States with post-war experience, such as Croatia, particularly in the areas of demining, reconstruction, security sector reform and reintegration. Following the meeting in Kyiv, the minister expressed satisfaction that the European Union has recognised the importance of Croatia's initiative to support Ukrainian veterans, which has now been incorporated into a broader European framework.

Ministers then discussed the situation in the Middle East, including an exchange of views with the Prime Minister of Lebanon, Nawaf Salam. The discussions focused on Lebanon, Iran, Gaza and the West Bank, as well as the broader security and economic implications of instability in the region. Grlić Radman recalled the conclusions of the MED9 meeting held in Split on 9 April, which highlighted in particular the adverse effects of military conflicts on security, energy stability and global supply chains. Croatia supports the de-escalation of tensions, the protection of civilians, the unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance, and the continuation of diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilisation. The minister also reiterated that the two-State solution remains the only viable political framework for achieving a just and lasting peace.

In the context of discussions on the South Caucasus, ministers exchanged views on the situation in Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia, with a particular focus on supporting the peace process, regional stability and strengthening the European Union's engagement in this strategically important region.

The meeting also addressed the situation in Sudan, marking the third anniversary of the outbreak of the conflict. Ministers warned of the further deterioration of the humanitarian and security situation and emphasised the need for stronger international action to protect civilians, ensure humanitarian access and support peace efforts.

The meeting in Luxembourg once again confirmed the need for a unified, responsible and long-term oriented approach by the European Union in addressing increasingly complex international security challenges.

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