Statement by President António Costa following the meeting with regional partners 15:40 President of the European Council António Costa highlighted that the EU is a reliable[...]

First, let me thank President Christodoulides for hosting this important meeting at such a crucial time.

The war in the Middle East has already had disastrous consequences. For people, for infrastructure and for the global economy. And with every day that passes without a solution, the situation is only getting worse.

The current situation clearly underscores how closely Europe's security is linked with that of the Middle East, and how vital our cooperation on security and defence has become. That is why our exchange with all of you, your Excellencies, was so timely and useful. To listen to you. To hear your assessment of the current situation. And to offer the support of the European Union.

The European Union stands in full solidarity with your countries and your people. You can count on us. Since the beginning, we have consistently called for de-escalation and negotiations, in full respect of international law and international humanitarian law.

The recent announcement of the prolongation of the ceasefire on Iran is a welcome step. Negotiations must continue with the objective to find a lasting solution to end this war and address the core concerns.

And the Strait of Hormuz must immediately reopen without restrictions and without tolling, in full respect of international law and the principle of freedom of navigation. This is vital for the entire world.

Diplomacy is the only sustainable way forward, and the EU is ready to contribute to all ongoing efforts. This includes the nuclear file and helping restore the Gulf energy infrastructure in order to stabilise the global energy markets.

The situation in Lebanon remains of grave concern for us. We hope for an extended ceasefire on the ground. And we call for diplomatic efforts to continue, in full respect of international law and Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Hezbollah poses an existential threat for Lebanon and it is a dangerous destabilising factor for peace and security in the region. President Aoun - you have taken a truly historic decision to ban the military activities of Hezbollah. We will continue to support you and your authorities in your efforts to disarm Hezbollah. This is the only sustainable solution for restoring Lebanon's stability. It is encouraging to see that talks have started between Lebanon and Israel and it is essential that they continue. And the EU will keep on providing humanitarian and economic support to help you respond to the challenges you face.

Our friends from Egypt and Jordan have also joined us today. They are our strategic partners and their stability and security are key priorities for the European Union.

I was also happy to meet again with President Al-Sharaa. The European Union acknowledges the important steps that you have taken to rebuild Syria. We support your efforts towards a peaceful and inclusive Syria.

Finally, let me thank the Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council for joining us here today. This year we will have our next EU-GCC summit - now more than ever we need to strengthen our ties.

We are a reliable and predictable partner for all of you, today and in the future. We share your objective of building a prosperous, stable and peaceful future for the region. And we stand ready to contribute further.

Many thanks.