The committee adopted the own-initiative report by Cecilia MALMSTRÖM
(ALDE, SE) on relations between the EU and Russia. It called for further
integration of Russia
into the world economy and closer involvement of the country in European
security, while voicing concern over human rights and the development of
democracy.
MEPs warned of the "apparent
weakening of Russia's
commitment to democracy, the market economy and the protection of human
rights". They highlighted reports of discrimination and anti-semitism,
restrictions on the media and the use of the judicial system for political
goals. However, they also acknowledged Russia's potential as a strategic
partner, not only in the economic and trade spheres, but also in fighting
international terrorism and trafficking in drugs, arms and people, and
addressing environmental and nuclear hazards.
Mentioning Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova and Georgia, MEPs said they rejected "foreign policies aimed at creating
spheres of influence" and asked Russia to see the spread of
democracy in neighbouring countries and the development of stronger ties to
the EU in these countries not as a threat but as "a chance to renew political and economic cooperation with those
countries".
The committee remained deeply concerned about the continuing failure to end lawlessness in Chechnyaand the "lack of will to seek a negotiated
solution as exemplified by the rejection of the ceasefire proposed by the
late President Maskhadov and of his subsequent brutal killing",
which it condemned. It urged the Council again to be prepared to give
assistance to a peaceful and constructive dialogue.
However, the report underlined the importance of Russia's support for the ICC and
the Kyoto Protocol. MEPs stressed the importance of setting up a common
external security area and also called for further cooperation in the field
of maritime safety, especially on a ban for single-hull tankers in the Baltic
and BlackSeas. And they urged the EU to offer Russia help in the dismantling of its nuclear
arsenal, while calling on Russia
to contribute to worldwide non-proliferation and disarmament, especially
concerning Iran.
They also advocated the opening of negotiations with Russia on a free trade area as
soon as it has joined the WTO.
Finally, MEPs urged the EU and individual MemberStates to ensure that agreed
positions are always fully respected in their contacts with Russia.