Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 May 1993

Vol. 430 No. 3

Written Answers. - Russian Referendum Results.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

96 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs whether the Taoiseach has sent his congratulations to President Yeltsin on the Referendum results in Russia; whether Ireland will provide any support for the reforms there; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring)

The Taoiseach has sent a message of congratulations to President Yeltsin on the significant endorsement he received in the 25 April referendum for his policies of political and economic reform. The Taoiseach conveyed to President Yeltsin and to the Russian people his best wishes in pursuing these economic and political goals in the time ahead.

The Government attaches great importance to the continuation of the reform process in Russia. It is vital that the principles of democracy and respect for human rights should remain central to these reforms. A strengthened democratic foundation for the process of political and economic reform is now being elaborated. The success of the reform process is crucial for stability in Russia and Europe generally.

As I informed the Dáil on 23 March, we have made it clear to Russia through our bilateral contacts at the political level, that Ireland, in common with other EC member states, will continue its support for the daunting task of economic transformation now underway in Russia.