The High Representative and Vice President Federica Mogherini met today with the Secretary General of the League of Arab States (LAS), Dr. Nabil El Araby, in Brussels.

During their first bilateral meeting, HR/VP F. Mogherini and the LAS Secretary General N. El Araby discussed the current situation in the Arab world, focusing on Libya, Iraq, Syria, the Middle East Peace Process and notably the terrorist threat posed by Da'esh in Syria and Iraq. Both leaders also signed a Memorandum of Understanding furthering cooperation between the EEAS and the LAS.

The HR/VP stated that "we reaffirmed the crucial importance of working together to address the different crises affecting the region. On Libya, on MEPP, on the situation in Syria and Iraq, amongst others, we share a common interest in looking for long-lasting solutions to ensure regional peace and stability."

The HR/VP and the LAS Secretary General also addressed how to take forward relations between the EU and the LAS. In this regard, the on-going unprecedented strategic dialogue on political and security matters, covering cooperation on counter-terrorism, fight against organised crime or crisis management, but also stronger cultural dialogue will be key.

"Europe and the Arab world are also faced with common challenges. In particular, we need to ensure close cooperation in the fight against terrorism. It is a threat against our citizens and societies. Europe was attacked last week, but the Arab and Muslim world that suffer more from the consequences of terrorism. Together with the Arab world, we are fully aware that this is not only a military and a security fight but also a political and a cultural one. Strengthened dialogue will help us to address this range of issues." said Ms Mogherini.