The two-day informal gathering focused on European defense cooperation, transatlantic relations, and foreign policy challenges arising from Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, as well as broader security concerns.
On the first day, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy joined the discussions.
According to Poland’s Foreign Ministry, most EU member states and the UK spoke with one voice in reaffirming their steadfast support for Ukraine, including efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace.
Participants agreed on the need to maintain pressure on Russia, including through tougher sanctions. Ministers also emphasized the UK’s role as a key security partner in Europe.
“I am delighted that I was in a position to include Britain back in the European conversation in this format,” said Poland's Foreign Minister, Radosław Sikorski.
„We hope that this brings closer the day when we have a signed document on collaboration between the European Union and the UK in the security field, not only in terms of defense, but also internal security. We do need each other,” he added.
Discussions highlighted the importance of close cooperation with the UK on foreign, security, and defense policy, including the need for a formal Security and Defence Partnership.
The Gymnich meeting is a biannual informal gathering of EU foreign ministers, held under the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union since 1974. It takes its name from Schloss Gymnich in Germany, where the first such meeting was hosted.
"Poland — this is where the heart of Europe beats," said Poland’s Foreign Minister, highlighting the symbolic importance of hosting the Gymnich meeting in Warsaw.
Read more about this topic:
(m p)
Source: MSZ/X/@PolandMFA/@POLAND25EU/@sikorskiradek