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EU ready to support post-conflict recovery measures – Charles Michel
POLITICS
01.12.2021 | 14:05
The EU is ready to play its role in conflict resolution and prevention; this includes strengthening confidence and supporting comprehensive and sustainable settlement, including post-conflict rehabilitation measures, President of the European Council Charles Michel said when addressing the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum.
Neighbours are always important. If we want peace, stability and prosperity, we must work with our neighbours. History has taught us this lesson. And our Eastern Partnership has been a testament to this simple truth for over 12 years. We have advanced our partnership in spite of challenges ranging from economic crises to armed conflicts and the COVID pandemic. And important progress has been made – improving electoral frameworks, reforming administrations, fostering the independence of the judiciary, and prosecuting corruption.
But we all know, challenges remain. In tackling those, we insist and we persist. Strengthening democracy, fighting corruption, defending the rule of law, guaranteeing a free media, and countering disinformation – this is an uphill battle, but an essential and a worthy battle.
It’s all our responsibility. And you – civil society – have played, and are playing, a crucial role. You must continue to step forward and make your voices heard.
Prolonged conflicts in the region remain a fundamental challenge. They require renewed efforts in line with the principles and norms of international law. The EU stands ready to play its role to help prevent and resolve conflict. This includes building confidence and contributing to lasting and comprehensive settlements – including support for post-conflict rehabilitation measures.
The relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan show the fragility of the situation. I am totally convinced that only political dialogue can lead to a sustainable settlement. It will also require civil society in Armenia and Azerbaijan to come together, to build bridges and to help in reconciliation efforts.
