The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, denounced Russia’s attitude in the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) on Tuesday 31 January.
“Russia, although it is a participating State to OSCE, has shown total disrespect for the core principals of the organisation defined in the Helsinki Final Act and in the Paris Charter”, he denounced at a press briefing with Macedonian Foreign Minister Bujar Osmani, who currently Chairs the OSCE. “Every week Russia deliberately obstructs discussions and continues to block necessary decision of the organisation which was established with Moscow’s signature to deal with the security in Europe”, Mr Borrell added.
He gave the EU’s full support and cooperation to the Macedonian Chairmanship of the OSCE and its commitment to ensure the organisation’s field presence in Ukraine.
“The ties between the EU and the OSCE are natural and strong”, Mr Osmani said, adding that the two organizations were founded on strong values and visions for the future.
Mr Osmani detailed the priorities of his Chairmanship: a functional and flexible OSCE offering a versatile toolbox to help restore peace and security, prevent conflict and promote cooperation, promote human security through sustainable economic growth and environmental cooperation and defend human rights. Mr Osmani also highlighted the fight against corruption. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)