Brussels, 23/06/2011 (Agence Europe) - European Union officials have expressed concern about Russia's refusal to register an independent political party, the latest in a series of such cases ahead of parliamentary elections there in December. “The difficulties faced by political parties in registering for elections effectively constrain political competition in Russia, reduce the choice available to its electorate and show that there are real obstacles to political pluralism in the country”, EU High Representative Catherine Ashton said. “Political pluralism is a cornerstone of democracy and modern society, and a source of political legitimacy”, she said in a statement on Wednesday 22 June. European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek said: “Democratic elections require real and free competition among political parties”. Russia's Justice Ministry refused to register the liberal Party of People's Freedom due to what it said were a series of technical problems with its application. (LoC)