Ministerial meeting of the Council of the Baltic Sea States concluded in Reykjavik
A Ministerial meeting of the Council of the Baltic Sea States, CBSS, hosted by Gudlaugur Thor Thordarson, Minister for Foreign Affairs, was held in Reykjavik today, marking the 25th anniversary of the CBSS and concluding Iceland ‘s presidency of the Council. At the meeting, the Foreign Ministers agreed to establish a working group on the future role of the CBSS and cooperation in the region. They also discussed the role of regional cooperation in the implementation of the UN sustainable development goals.
In his speech, Minister Thordarson emphasized the importance of the Council and regional cooperation, particularly during the times of uncertainty and challenges in Europe.
„The value of dialogue is indisputable and I am very pleased that the Foreign Ministers of the CBSS have gathered here today, for the first time since the beginning of the Ukraine conflict. Our priorities during our presidency have been well received and I am particularly happy to end our tenure with a successful Ministerial meeting here in Reykjavik,” said Minister Thordarson, handing over the presidency to Sweden. Iceland's priorities were gender equality, democracy and children, which were promoted with a range of events, including a Barbershop event in Reykjavik to include men in the discussion on gender equality.
Foreign Minister Thordarson had a meeting with Sven Mikser, Estonia's Foreign Minister on the margins of the Ministerial; on bilateral relations, security and defense and Brexit. He also met with Poland's Foreign minister, Witold Waszczykowski.
The Council of the Baltic Sea States, CBSS, was established in 1992. Members of the Council are the Nordic and Baltic States, Russia, Poland and Germany, and a representative from the European Union.