Following a discussion at an informal meeting of EU foreign affairs ministers (Gymnich), the Directors-General discussed the conditions in Afghanistan regarding development cooperation and humanitarian aid.

They focused on the EU’s collective development response to the situation that deteriorated quickly and dramatically after the US and NATO military withdrawal. Humanitarian aid continues to be delivered while development aid will depend on the conditions negotiated by EU foreign ministers today.

Acting Director-General Jukič stressed that we must avoid a humanitarian disaster in Afghanistan and its neighbouring countries, noting that the EU should be united and support the region through the Team Europe Initiatives. The EU needs to take a leading role and act in a unifying manner, also in relation to international donors and in cooperation with international organisations on the ground. The Slovenian Presidency will work in a Team Europe spirit and step up the EU’s assistance to the region.