The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Brian Cowen, has called for the release of all hostages in Iraq without harm.
Minister Cowen was speaking at the end of the first day of a meeting of EU foreign ministers in his home town of Tullamore, Co Offaly.
He said the EU believes strongly that a more developed role for the UN would be helpful in dealing with the Iraqi situation. Mr Cowen added that improving security will be a key factor in delivering free and fair elections for the Iraqi people.
Earlier, the minister said Israel has to make peace with its enemies and not its friends.
US endorsement of Israel plan discussed
The ministers discussed the US decision to endorse an Israeli plan to withdraw Jewish settlements from the Gaza Strip, while keeping others in the West Bank. The US endorsement has been widely criticised.
Mr Cowen said he was troubled by criticism from commentators in Ireland that he had welcomed any aspect of what President Bush had to say following the US president’s meeting this week with Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon.
Mr Cowen said any viable long term solution in the Middle East needs to be agreed and inclusive.
He questioned how building a lasting peace in the Middle East could be achieved if a prior understanding was agreed with one side on the outcome of talks, in advance of negotiations taking place.
Mr Cowen also condemned the taking of hostages in Iraq and called for their release.
