Bratislava – The foreign ministers of the Central 5 group, which includes Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, and Slovenia, convened in Slovakia to address various pressing issues, such as EU enlargement, migration, the situation in Ukraine, and developments in Gaza. Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon highlighted the significance of collaboration among Central European nations.
“The meetings in the Central 5 (C5) format reflect our commitment to dialogue, even on topics where our perspectives might vary. Sharing opinions and positions aids in coordinating our efforts at the EU level, which is vital for effective decision-making in the EU’s common foreign and security policy,” Fajon stated, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The C5 ministers emphasized that EU enlargement should remain a priority, underscoring the need to ensure stability and prosperity in the Western Balkans while supporting the region’s countries in their journey toward European integration.
Additionally, they reiterated their support for Ukraine amid Russian aggression and advocated for a sustainable and just peace. The ministers concurred that the EU should be involved in negotiations concerning security in Europe.
Discussions also covered the situation in Gaza, with Fajon stressing that the EU must present a united front, asserting that real change can only occur through decisive action at the union level.
Founded in 2020, the informal C5 group held its last meeting in Ljubljana, hosted by Minister Fajon, in March. (September 11)
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