Finnish President calls on EU for dialogue with Russia

by time news

Finnish President Sauli Niinistö spoke in favor of cooperation between the EU and Russia. As an example, he cited Russian-Finnish relations, which, according to him, are built on an active straightforward dialogue. He added that the cooperation of the members of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has actually “stalled”.

“We need a dialogue with Russia. This in no way contradicts the firm position (of the West in relation to Moscow. – “B”). Based on Finnish experience, I can assure you that both of these elements can be part of the same equation. Our own relations with Russia are based on an active, straightforward dialogue, – the statement of Mr. Niinistö is quoted in the online magazine Verkkouutiset.fi (translated by TASS). – The same should be possible at the European level. In this regard, I would like to mention that it is especially regrettable that the cooperation within the OSCE in practice has come to a standstill. ”

The Finnish President stressed that cooperation is necessary in order to jointly respond “to common threats and challenges in Europe.” At the moment, instead of him, there are only “growing suspicions and mutual accusations,” said Mr. Niinistö.

On September 16, the European Parliament approved a report on the review of relations with Moscow. The document, in particular, refers to the possible non-recognition of the autumn Duma elections. Later the EU and the UK criticized them. The report also states that the EU should fight against “interference” of the Russian Federation in the affairs of the union and “support a democratic society” in Russia. The Kremlin regretted this EU call to reconsider relations with Russia.

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