Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 20 Nov 2002

Vol. 557 No. 5

Written Answers. - Foreign Conflicts.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

120 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps he has taken, in relation to the ongoing war in Chechnya, to convey the concerns of the Irish people at the ongoing destruction and loss of life, in view of Ireland's history as a small nation ruled by a much larger neighbour; and if he will make a statement on events in Chechnya. [23011/02]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

Together with its partners in the European Union, Ireland supports continued dialogue with the Russian Federation on a range of human rights issues including the situation in Chechnya. At the EU-Russia Summit on 11 November 2002, the Danish Presidency, led by Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen, raised our concerns about Chechnya with President Vladimir Putin, and reiterated the European Union's belief that there must be a political solution to the situation there. Ireland has also raised the issue of human rights in Chechnya bilaterally with the Russian Federation, through diplomatic channels.

We acknowledge the right of the Government of the Russian Federation to defend its territorial integrity, to fight against terrorism and crime and to protect its population. However, the fight against terrorism must be conducted in accordance with internationally accepted human rights standards. I will continue to work for the protection of human rights in Chechnya, and to promote a peaceful solution to its problems.