Blanar: Energy Supply Issue Can Only Be Resolved through US-Iran Negotiations

Luxembourg, 22 April (TASR) - Following a meeting of the EU's Foreign Affairs Council on Tuesday (21 April), Slovak Foreign Affairs Minister Juraj Blanar (Smer-SD) praised Pakistan's mediating role in connection with peace talks between the United States and Iran, viewing it as the only way to resolve the issue of energy supplies. "As for aviation fuel, there's a risk of its shortage in Europe, since as much as 40 percent of aviation fuel is produced in the Persian Gulf countries," stated Blanar. He confirmed his support for France and the United Kingdom in relation to ensuring passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Lebanon was also one of the agenda of the FAC meeting. "One million Lebanese have left their homes and more than 40,000 housing units have been destroyed, indicating a humanitarian crisis in the area, which is absolutely unacceptable for Slovak diplomacy, for the Slovakia," stated Blanar, stressing the need to respect international law. The Slovak minister welcomed the 10-day ceasefire between Israel and the militant movement Hezbollah. According to him, EU member states support the disarmament of the group, in which the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) must also play a role. "Lebanon has our support, and we're ready to help address this situation so that Lebanon can fully bring its territory under control, as well as the armed groups operating within it," added Blanar. EU representatives also discussed Syria at the meeting, agreeing on the need to continue negotiations and expand cooperation. Last but not least, the minister also commented on the situation in the Gaza Strip. "Unfortunately, it appears that the peace plan adopted by a UN Security Council resolution and divided into several stages, is not being fulfilled to any great extent," stated Blanar. ko