Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 February 2014
72. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the degree to which he and his colleagues throughout the EU continue to provide support for democracy in the Ukraine; the extent to which the international community in general continues to be involved in this regard; if efforts are being made to intercede with the Russian authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8588/14]
View answerThe European Union continues to be actively engaged in facilitating the search for a peaceful and negotiated solution to the crisis in Ukraine. The Foreign Affairs Council has discussed the situation at each of its meetings since the crisis began in November. Council Conclusions have set out our expectations in the clearest terms including the absolute obligation of the authorities to respect and protect the fundamental rights of the Ukrainian people to association. The Council has stated that a democratic solution must be sought through inclusive dialogue which meets the aspirations of the Ukrainian people.
For her part, High Representative Ashton has made several visits to Kiev. I want to take this opportunity to commend her for her tireless efforts on behalf of the EU and indeed the Ukrainian people. As of now, there have been six EU visits in all since January. The EU remains committed to Ukraine’s political association and economic integration based on respect for common values. The Union is also ready to continue its efforts with the international community and international financial institutions to assist Ukraine, in line with well-established conditions, to find a sustainable way out of its difficult economic situation.
The Council of Europe and Organisation Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) are also closely involved in the search for a peaceful and negotiated settlement based on inclusive dialogue. In that regard, I should mention, in particular, the Council of Europe’s Advisory Panel which is to investigate the violent incidents during the protests. As I have stated elsewhere, I believe that this panel could be an effective mechanism in helping to defuse tensions.
The situation in Ukraine was discussed at the most recent EU-Russia Summit which took place in Brussels on 28 January.
