EAM Jaishankar participates in Gymnich Meeting

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited Cyprus from May 27–28 to participate as a special invitee in the informal meeting of European Union (EU) Foreign Ministers, known as the Gymnich Meeting.

• The visit took place at the invitation of Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative and Vice President, and Constantinos Kombos.
• During the meeting on May 28, Jaishankar participated in a working session focused on major geopolitical and foreign policy issues of common concern.
• The gathering provided an opportunity for India and EU foreign ministers to exchange views on emerging global challenges and avenues for deeper cooperation.

What is the Gymnich Meeting?

• The Gymnich Meeting is an informal gathering of foreign ministers of EU member states.

• Held twice every year (once every six months).
• Hosted by the country holding the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union.
• The Gymnich meeting derives its name from Schloss Gymnich, a historic moated castle located near Erftstadt in Germany.
• The first such meeting was convened on 20–21 April 1974 by Hans-Dietrich Genscher during Germany’s presidency of the European Community.
• Designed for open and strategic discussions on foreign policy issues.
• No formal decisions or binding resolutions are adopted.
• The informal format allows ministers to engage in candid exchanges on major international developments and strategic priorities.

Source: DD