The development ministers discussed the deeply concerning humanitarian situation in Ukraine and providing emergency humanitarian aid to the country and its neighbouring countries. State Secretary Raščan gave a positive assessment of the way the neighbouring countries and the EU have responded to this humanitarian and refugee crisis. To help the people of Ukraine, Slovenia has allocated a humanitarian contribution amounting to EUR 1.1 million and material assistance worth EUR 163,000, and has already welcomed the first refugees, standing ready to help the Ukrainians in the future, too.

The ministers also exchanged views on the geopolitical dimension of the EU's international cooperation and development policy, namely as regards the gaps in the EU's overall offer to partner countries. They highlighted various opportunities to improve the effectiveness of the EU's support, including through the Team Europe initiatives.

During a working lunch, the ministers discussed the possibility of integrating biodiversity into development policies and the links between biodiversity, food security, and sustainable food systems. As the country currently holding the EU Council presidency, France is promoting low-carbon agriculture, initiatives aimed at accelerating the agro-ecological transition, and reducing pesticide use.