The strategic debate on Africa will focus on three areas: security and stability in the light of the terrorist threat of Boko Haram, prosperity and economic development, and partnerships with African regional organisations.

The UN has been calling on European partners to enhance their presence in the UN-led missions. Two decades ago, Europeans contributed 40% of the forces in the missions, while today they contribute only 7%.

Discussing Libya, the ministers will focus on ways to support the peace process under the auspices of the UN Special Representative and Head of the UN Support Mission in Libya Bernardino Leon.

While Ukraine is not on the agenda, it is expected to be discussed at the upcoming summit of the Eastern Partnership to be held in Riga on 21 and 22 May.

The partnership covers the EU's relations with Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus.

The ministers are also expected to sign a special statement on the fourth anniversary of the start of a civil war in Syria.