EU High Representative Josep Borrell and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed Ukraine and the Middle East in Washington on Wednesday 13 March, as well as “ways to further strengthen the EU-US partnership at a crucial time for global diplomacy”, according to the European External Action Service. China, the Western Balkans, Haiti and Venezuela were also discussed.
“The EU is our partner of choice when it comes to tackling the challenges of our time, whether in the transatlantic area or in the global arena”, stressed Mr Blinken ahead of the meeting, emphasising the “strength of this partnership”.
With regard to Ukraine, Mr Borrell stressed the need for “greater, faster and lasting” military assistance. He congratulated the United States on its announcement of a further $300 million in support. According to the State Department, Mr Blinken and Mr Borrell discussed the importance of transatlantic unity in the face of common challenges posed by China, including concerns over its transfers to help rebuild Russia's defence.
Concerning Gaza, the High Representative called for action, as “the very survival of the people of Gaza is at stake”, and called for work on a two-state solution. The mutual interest in defending freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden was also discussed. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)