Reference News, March 17 report, according to EFE, on March 16, EU foreign ministers rejected expanding the EU's "Shield" naval operation's mandate in the Strait of Hormuz and called for easing tensions in the region.
The report stated that EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kallas, said at a press conference after the EU Council meeting: "This is not a war of Europe." She added, "Europe has no interest in an endless war."
She said, "This war was not started by us, and the political goals are unclear."
Kallas also acknowledged that this conflict "directly concerns European interests," and that "Iran is currently waging a war against the global economy."
She emphasized, "The ministers today reiterated that our priority is to ease the situation and maintain freedom of navigation."
Although the ministers discussed the possibility of expanding the "Shield" operation during the council meeting that day, Kallas clearly stated, "There is no intention to modify the operation's mandate at the moment."
She said, "Although the Strait of Hormuz has become the focus, the Red Sea remains crucial. The risk of continued Houthi involvement requires us to remain vigilant."
The report also mentioned that Spanish Foreign Minister Álvarez said, "Military solutions alone will never bring democracy, stability or economic prosperity." He advocated maintaining the current mandate and de-escalating the situation.
Kallas revealed that she has exchanged views with UN Secretary-General Guterres and others in recent days on "how to keep the Strait of Hormuz open."
She said that resuming the transport of fertilizers, food and energy through the Strait of Hormuz is "an urgent priority." (Translated by Han Chao)
Original: toutiao.com/article/7618074699814044200/
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