In the framework of the ongoing diplomatic efforts on the conflict in Ukraine, the High Representative and Minister Lavrov discussed at length the situation in the eastern part of the country. Mogherini reiterated the European Union's strong support for the full implementation of the Minsk agreements, underlining also Russia's responsibility in this regard, and re-confirmed the European Union's engagement in supporting and accompanying the work of the Normandy format and of the OSCE.
Mogherini and Lavrov also exchanged views on issues they are addressing jointly, from the need to preserve the Iran nuclear deal to the Middle East peace process and the work of the Quartet they are both part of. They also discussed the situation in Libya and Afghanistan.
Finally, they spoke at length about Syria, after the meeting on the cessation of hostilities held in Astana, in the view of the resumption of the intra-Syrian talks in Geneva on 23 February, as set by the UNSE Staffan de Mistura, and the upcoming Brussels conference on the future of Syria and the region.
HRVP Mogherini and Minister Lavrov agreed to remain in close contacts on these issues in the coming weeks.
