The focus will be on the threat of Islamic State, especially the security situation and the humanitarian crisis in the Syrian city of Kobane.

The ministers will also upgrade sanctions against the Syrian regime of President Bashar al-Assad by expanding travel ban and asset freeze.

While Ukraine is also on the agenda, a decision on sanctions against Russia is not expected.

October's regular session of EU foreign ministers will end with a dinner in honour of EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Catherine Ashton.

Ashton is handing over to her successor when the new European Commission takes over, expectedly on 1 November.