At a joint press conference following the XIIIth EU-Rio Group Ministerial Meeting, the Chairman of the Rio Group, the Dominican Foreign Minister Morales Troncoso, the EU External Affairs Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner and Federal Foreign Minister Steinmeier stated that their one-day meeting had been fruitful. The talks focused on the situation in Haiti, energy and climate issues, as well as human rights.
Support for political reforms in Haiti
“Haitistill has a long way to go in its development process,” stated Frank-Walter Steinmeier. He went on to say that the country nevertheless had every chance of achieving long-term stability and improving the quality of life of its people. The EU and the Rio Group agreed that people in Haitineeded the solidarity of the international community. However, Haiti’s Government also had to implement further reforms. The international community would continue its commitment, not least through development cooperation, stated the Minister. Benita Ferrero-Waldner pledged Haiti EU financial aid to the tune of 233 million euro until 2013.
Exchange of experiences on energy and climate issues
Energy and climate are top priorities for both the European Union and the Rio Group states. “When it comes to this issue, we will all be either winners or losers in the long term,” stressed Frank-Walter Steinmeier. Global interdependence in this sphere was evident. It was therefore crucial that the exchange of experiences be intensified, for instance on renewable energies and the promotion of energy efficiency.
