The so-called Gymnich meeting is held in addition to the regularly meetings in the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels every month. These informal meetings often draw up the long-term directions of the foreign policy of the EU.
The Norwegian commitment to the peace process in the Middle East, Norway being Chair of the the international donor group in support of the Palestinians (AHLC) and the expected Palestinian initiative for state recognition in the UN in September, made up the background for the Foreign Minister’s participation. The Norwegian Foreign Minister was asked by the EU High Representative Catherine Ashton to provide input to the debate.
- My message was that the whole world now looks towards the EU. That offers great opportunities, but also a duty to be a responsible diplomatic player, the Norweigan Foreign Minister said after the meeting.
This year’s Gymnich meeting was the first since 1994 in which Norway participated.
- It is worth noting that our involvement in the Middle East gives us a position that makes the EU interested in the Norwegian assessments, Støre said.