Head of the Russian delegation senators commented on the discussion of this matter in PACE.
Credentials of the Russian delegation at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe have been approved without limitations, reported First Deputy Chair of the Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs and head of senators at the Russian delegation in PACE Sergei Kislyak.
“The Russian delegation underscored on many occasions that this organisation must apply its principles universally to all countries, including with due respect to the nation’s right to determine its destiny and its Constitution. The resolution that we are discussing is an example of how principles become subject to political manipulations,” the senator said following the discussion held on this issue in PACE.
“This resolution contains much that is far-fetched about our country, while we need honest opinions underpinned by facts. In this respect I would recommend that my colleagues in PACE recall the violations in Ukraine, the Baltic states and other European countries,” stressed the parliamentarian and expressed regret that some still attempt to involve PACE in propaganda exercises against our country.
“I will say it again: we are ready to work with the Assembly on all difficult issues but as an equal partner. This means that our credentials must be normal as those of all other national delegations, without encumbrances,” Sergei Kislayk said in his remarks.
According to Alexander Bashkin, member of the Federation Council Committee on Constitutional Legislation and State Building, the main reason for the unfounded accusations against Russia is that a considerable number of European politicians and media use double standards in determining their position.
“If all countries in Europe are equal then our standards must be the same. This will enable us to achieve what we so eagerly want — to understand each other and work together,” Alexander Bashkin said.