Europe

Is There Hope for Improved Relations Between Europe and Russia?

Minister for Europe of the UK and his Russian counterpart met at Munich Security Conference to discuss the issue

March 22nd, 2019
Eleanor Banks, News from Berlin
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The Minister for Europe of the United Kingdom, Sir Alan Duncan held a meeting with Russian First Deputy Foreign Minister Vladimir Titov at the Munich Security Conference on 15th-16th of February, 2019.

Sir Alan underlined that Europe and Russia have deep differences, and the only way to solve these issues would be for the Russian state to choose a different path and act as a responsible international partner before there can be any form of change in the current relationship with Russia. The Foreign Office Minister also reiterated that the UK’s and Allies’ firm stance is in a response to the Russian state’s reckless use of chemical weapons in Salisbury.

The Foreign Office Minister also noted that the functional channels of engagement are important in raising concerns and discussing international issues of cultural diplomacy between Europe and Russia. However, he made it clear that Russia must address the concerns of the international community. This includes its destabilizing activity in the Ukraine, as well as the persecution of the LGBT community in Chechnya. Any hope for improved cultural diplomatic relations will have to rest on Russia’s engagement with these issues.

Sir Alan also reiterated to First Deputy Foreign Minister Titov that the UK Government has no quarrel with the Russian people. The UK will continue to build and strengthen our cultural ties and people to people links with Russia wherever they can.

References:

News from Berlin