Brussels, 15/02/2000 (Agence Europe) - In the Conclusions that it adopted on Monday concerning Russia, the General Affairs Council: - noted that Russian forces were now in control of Grosny; - recalled its condemnation of the use of disproportionate and indiscriminate force and repeated its concerns about civilian casualties; - noted that fighting continued elsewhere in Chechnya; - called again on Russian authorities to take immediate steps towards a peaceful solution of the conflict, in particular the establishment of a cease-fire and the opening of a political dialogue with representatives of Chechnya; - stressed the urgent need to address the desperate situation of civilians remaining in Grozny as well as the displaced persons both elsewhere in Chechnya and in neighbouring regions, and reminded Russia of its heavy responsibility in addressing the deteriorating humanitarian situation; - confirmed its readiness to intensify its relief efforts as soon as the obstacles to a speedy, efficient and safe delivery of aid to civilians are removed (European Commissioner Poul Nielson briefed the Council on his fact-finding mission to the region); - stated that it would continue to give its full support to the efforts of the OSCE and the Council of Europe to reach a peaceful settlement of the conflict; - expressed the hope that the OSCE Assistance Group could return to the region as soon as possible; - recalled the importance of freedom of information and the media; - after being briefed by Commissioner Patten on implementation of the conclusions adopted on 24 January, took note of the revised work plan of the Presidency for implementation of the Common Strategy of the EU; - reiterated its readiness to contribute to building a stable long-term relationship with Russia on the basis of common values and shared objectives (EUROPE has reason to believe that the final section of this sentence was added at the request of Germany).
Implementation of EU common strategy towards Russia is restricted
The Council took note at the same time of the Presidency's work plan concerning implementation of the EU's common strategy towards Russia. This is in fact a revision in accordance with what was requested by the Helsinki Summit, so as to take account of developments in Chechnya. In practice, the new programme emphasises only the actions or initiatives the EU intends to develop with Russia in the present circumstances, namely:
- strict implementation of the EU/Russia Partnership and Cooperation Agreement;
- initiatives for the consolidation of democracy, the rule of law and public institutions;
- cooperation to reinforce stability and security in Europe and beyond;
- common challenges on the European continent.