Brussels, 14/12/2012 (Agence Europe) - In the view of MEPs, Russia is not ready for a real partnership with the EU. Modernisation of its economy must go hand in hand with political reform.
In a resolution adopted in Strasbourg on 13 December - on the basis of a report by Hannes Swoboda (S&D, Austria) - the European Parliament said it was disappointed by the absence of progress in reforms in Russia. Bilateral relations continue to suffer from Russia's inability to fully adhere to democratic values and to strengthen the rule of law. Nevertheless, negotiations for a new overall EU-Russia agreement should continue, despite the lack of Moscow's enthusiasm.
The future strengthened partnership and cooperation agreement - which is called for to replace the 1994 agreement - must provide a complete framework that is forward-looking and legally binding for the development of relations with Russia in the future, the Parliament states, insisting on the respect of democratic principles, human rights and the rule of law as an indispensable condition for signing an agreement. On the economic level, Russia's total respect of its WTO obligations is also an essential condition.
MEPs are particularly concerned about the deterioration of conditions in the development of civil society in Russia and about the climate of impunity, of endemic corruption, persecutions, arrests and detentions for political reasons. Moscow's repression of the political opposition is also criticised. In addition, political reform must be accompanied by Russia's economic modernisation. Having joined the WTO this year, Russia is slow to implement its commitments (see EUROPE 10745).
Lastly, the Parliament wants progress on issuing visas for academics, students, researchers, journalists, economic players and representatives of civil society. (EH/transl.fl)