The OSCE Ministerial Council discusses current security challenges
04 December 2020 News
The Council of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Participating States in the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) discussed the security challenges in Europe, including those in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, at their virtual 27th session which was held on 3-4 December.
Bulgaria was represented at the Ministerial Council by Mr. Petko Doykov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.
„The COVID-19 pandemic outbreak will produce long-term consequences for our societies“, he said. „Today, international cooperation, solidarity and collective actions are more needed than ever. In this challenging environment, it is crucial to ensure the effective and consistent work of the OSCE.“
The highlights of the discussion were the ongoing conflicts within the OSCE region, the situation in Ukraine, Belarus, and the conventional arms control.
„All OSCE Participating States should abide strictly by the existing principles and commitments within the Organization, including those in the field of the conventional arms control, and seek together sustainable political solutions to the ongoing conflicts which have a direct impact on the security of Europe and the wider Black Sea Region“, said Petko Doykov. He emphasized that the respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms was a key precondition for the attainment of comprehensive security.
The 27th Ministerial Council was hosted by Prime Minister Edi Rama of Albania who presented the activities of the Albanian OSCE Chairmanship-in-Office. Sweden will take over the OSCE Chairmanship-in-Office in 2021.