The OSCE brings together 57 states from Europe, Central Asia and North America. In addition to the political-security dimension, it also addresses economic-environmental issues and human rights as part of its comprehensive approach to security. The Council of Ministers is the second highest decision-making body of the OSCE and meets once a year.

“The OSCE finds itself in a very difficult situation as a result of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Most of the participating countries at the Ministerial Council made it clear that they want to counter Russia’s undermining of the security architecture and are interested in preserving the OSCE. Thanks to its unique experience, the OSCE plays an important role in numerous regions important for the security of Europe,” said Minister Lipavský.

In his speech at the Ministerial Council, Minister Lipavský stressed the importance of the OSCE’s assistance to Ukraine in coping with the consequences of Russian aggression. Czechia has so far contributed a total of CZK 6 million to the OSCE Programme in Support of Ukraine and other related OSCE activities. Minister Lipavský also expressed his hope for a long-term peaceful settlement in relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.