The General Affairs Council (GAC) of the European Union has approved a directive and a regulation aiming to ensure an uninterrupted supply of medicines from the United Kingdom to the markets of Cyprus, Malta and Ireland, as well as to ensure the supply of medicines to Northern Ireland, during its meeting which was held on Tuesday in Luxembourg.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the agreement provides for a temporary derogation for a transitional period of three years regarding the supply of medicines from the UK to the markets of Ireland, Malta and Cyprus.
Kasoulides, who represented Cyprus at the meeting, along with his counterparts from Malta and Ireland welcomed the adoption of the legislation and thanked the French Presidency of the Council of the EU for its efforts towards reaching an agreement.
Also on the agenda of the GAC was an exchange of views on the state of the rule of law in in five member states (Malta, Hungary, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Austria), as part of the ongoing dialogue related to the publication of the Commission’s third annual report on rule of law next July.
GAC members also exchanged views on the next steps of the Conference for the Future of Europe Conference according to the MFA statement, with Cyprus expressing its strong support.
Regarding Kasoulides’ participation in the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) on Monday, the MFA announcement points out that the ministers discussed the latest developments in Ukraine, the Western Balkans and Libya.
On the Western Balkans, Kasoulides noted that the momentum created by the prospects of the countries in the region to enter the EU must be made use of, and that the EU must remain consistent in its commitments so that it can exert a positive influence particularly in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina.
On Libya, Kasoulides stressed that foreign troops and mercenaries must be withdrawn from the country, as their presence increases the danger of the conflict being perpetuated as happened in Syria.
He also pointed out that a similar situation is developing in Mali, and stressed that the EU should focus its attention on foreign forces which have a destabilising role.
On Yemen, Kasoulides said that regardless of progress in the search for a solution, it is imperative to condemn Houthi terrorist attacks against civilians and non-military infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
On Monday, the FAC discussed developments in Ukraine. During the discussion Kasoulides elaborated on Cyprus’ position on the situation following the Russian invasion.
Also, on the issue regarding the release of EU aid funds for the Palestinian Authority, Kasoulides said that Cyprus believes this should happen as soon as possible. He also expressed Cyprus’ support for the convening of an EU – Israel Association Council.
The Foreign Minister will return to Cyprus on Wednesday.
Source: Cyprus News Agency