Council of Europe - Statement by the Ministry Spokesperson (27 June 2019)

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France is pleased to note the return of the Russian delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. France is convinced that Russia should be anchored in Europe.

France’s position is constant with respect to Crimea and the Donbas. It has been reaffirmed on numerous occasions. We have condemned and do not recognize the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia. We affirm our unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within the framework of its internationally recognized borders. We therefore supported, like all EU member states, the renewal of sanctions against Russia during the European Council meeting on June 20.

With respect to the Council of Europe, France, which currently chairs the Committee of Ministers, reaffirms that Russia’s membership of this organization is in the interest of Russian citizens themselves, who must be able to benefit from the protection of its bodies and have access to the European Court of Human Rights, the main human rights protection instrument in Europe.

The European Council must remain a pan-European organization.