Meeting in Luxembourg, the ministers urged preparation of a framework for sanctions against Ankara over its illegal oil drilling in Cypriot waters and applauded member states which have imposed arms embargoes over Syria.

The European Commission will draw up a list of people and companies to be targeted for their role in the drilling, which was recently extended by Turkey with a third rig.

The meeting’s conclusions will form the basis for EU leaders’ discussion on Turkey at their summit on Thursday.

The UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen briefed ministers on the political process. He informed them about his work in the run-up to the first meeting of the Constitutional Committee, which is planned for the end of October.

He also expressed his concerns over the risks of Turkey's military action in north-east Syria for the political process. Foreign ministers reiterated their full support to the Special Envoy's efforts.