The annual meeting of the foreign ministers of the European Union (EU) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) focused on the conflicts in Libya and Yemen on Wednesday, dpa reported
"Recent developments in North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula are a clear demonstration of the need for closer dialogue between the EU and GCC," the EU's foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said in the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi after the meeting.
Participants called for an immediate ceasefire, "stressing that Colonel (Moamer) Gaddafi's regime has lost its legitimacy and expressed support to the Transitional National Council," a joint communique issued at the end of the meeting stated.
Large numbers of lives are feared lost in the North African country, where fighting continues between rebels and forces loyal to Gaddafi amidst NATO airstrikes enforcing a UN-mandated no fly zone.
Meanwhile, UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan called for increased military action against Gaddafi, regional network Al Arabiya reported.
The foreign ministers also "called on all parties in Yemen to urgently forge a meaningful, comprehensive and inclusive agreement on political transition," the communique said.
The GCC has made efforts to mediate the political crisis in Yemen, where protesters have been calling for President Ali Abdullah Saleh's ouster after more than 30 years in power.
Ashton, who said she "recognised" the value of the GCC's efforts to mediate the crisis, reiterated that the EU condemns all violence against civilians and is "not interested in dictating to countries, but in assisting where we can."
EU and GCC representatives also discussed developments in Iraq, efforts to revitalize the Mideast peace process, and recent diplomatic tensions between Iran and the Gulf states.
Participants urged Iran to "play a constructive role in the region and to cease interfering in the internal affairs of GCC member states and other countries in the region," the communique said.
There have been concerns in the region that Shi'ite led Iran was inciting unrest in Sunni-ruled Gulf countries which have significant Shi'ite populations, such as Saudi and Bahrain.
The 22nd EU-Gulf Joint Council and Ministerial Meeting will be held within the EU in 2012.
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