News

During the European Union’s General Affairs and External Relations Council meeting on 27 October in Luxembourg, the EU foreign ministers discussed outcome of elections in Afghanistan after a part of votes had been recounted, they also adopted the Plan for strengthened EU Action in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Under this Plan the EU undertakes a commitment to cooperate with the abovementioned countries and confirms its preparedness to help facing current challenges together with the countries of the region and international partners.

In Afghanistan, the EU action will concentrate on strengthening the capacities of the country and its institutions, the rule of law, expanding the EU Police Mission (EUPOL) and support to economy, particularly through rural development. The EU also intends to enhance its strategic partnership with Pakistan and is prepared to help the country to reform its security sector, to strengthen the rule of law and democratic institutions, and to deepen bilateral economic cooperation.

“I trust that the new Plan for strengthened EU Action in Afghanistan and Pakistan will effectively contribute to the achievement of the foreseen goals and will guarantee an even development of all Afghanistan’s regions, including the province of Ghor,” Lithuania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Vygaudas Ušackas said.

On 15-17 October during the visit to Afghanistan, the Minister ascertained how important it was to assure the necessary funding for civil projects and an even distribution of funding to the regions, and to coordinate civil and military efforts of the international community, in order to implement the necessary reforms and to guarantee the desirable progress of the region.

While building the security and stability in the region, an active and coordinated involvement of the EU and international organisations, such as the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), is essential.

“Lithuania, as the future OSCE Chairmanship, supports the actions of the organisation enhancing the border security of the Central Asian countries and Afghanistan, and backs the current projects in the areas of curbing drug trade, as well as the enhancement of education and training,” Minister V.Ušackas said.