Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🇷🇺🇨🇳 On April 8-9, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will pay an official visit to China, where he will hold talks with Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
🤝 The Foreign Ministers will discuss a wide range of issues related to bilateral cooperation, as well as interaction at the international arena with a focus on joint efforts at the #UN, #BRICS, the #SCO, the #G20, #APEC and other multilateral mechanisms and forums.
The Sides will have a thorough exchange of views on a number of pressing matters and regional issues, including the Ukrainian crisis and the situation in the Asia-Pacific region.
🤝 The Foreign Ministers will discuss a wide range of issues related to bilateral cooperation, as well as interaction at the international arena with a focus on joint efforts at the #UN, #BRICS, the #SCO, the #G20, #APEC and other multilateral mechanisms and forums.
The Sides will have a thorough exchange of views on a number of pressing matters and regional issues, including the Ukrainian crisis and the situation in the Asia-Pacific region.
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🇷🇺🇨🇳 On April 8-9, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov was on an official visit to China, where he was received by President of China Xi Jinping and held extensive talks with Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi.
The Chinese leader welcomed Sergey Lavrov’s arrival in Beijing as an important step of comprehensive preparations for President of Russia Vladimir Putin’s state visit to China, scheduled to take place this year.
Xi Jinping praised the current state of bilateral relations, which continue to develop dynamically considering the difficult situation in the world, and stated his readiness to further strengthen comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation with Russia.
<...>
During Sergey Lavrov’s talks with Wang Yi, the schedule of bilateral contacts at the high and highest levels was discussed, as well as separate issues of practical cooperation in various fields.
The two countries’ Foreign Ministers stressed the importance to promote mutual cooperation with the #UN, #SCO, #BRICS, #G20, #APEC and other multilateral mechanisms and forums. The Ministers also discussed ways to ensure security and stability in the Asia-Pacific regions considering the US’s policy to create limited-membership closed military-political alliances there, which are anti-Russia and anti-China.
Separate matters related to the developments around the Korean peninsula and Taiwan, as well as within the Middle Eastern settlement process, were discussed, as well as prospects of forming new security architecture in Eurasia against the backdrop of stagnating Euro-Atlantic mechanisms.
<...>
The talks, held in Beijing in a traditionally trustful and friendly atmosphere, showed the two countries’ converging approaches to the major global processes and reaffirmed the importance of further promoting bilateral cooperation for strengthening peace and stability in the region and on the whole planet.
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The Chinese leader welcomed Sergey Lavrov’s arrival in Beijing as an important step of comprehensive preparations for President of Russia Vladimir Putin’s state visit to China, scheduled to take place this year.
Xi Jinping praised the current state of bilateral relations, which continue to develop dynamically considering the difficult situation in the world, and stated his readiness to further strengthen comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation with Russia.
<...>
During Sergey Lavrov’s talks with Wang Yi, the schedule of bilateral contacts at the high and highest levels was discussed, as well as separate issues of practical cooperation in various fields.
The two countries’ Foreign Ministers stressed the importance to promote mutual cooperation with the #UN, #SCO, #BRICS, #G20, #APEC and other multilateral mechanisms and forums. The Ministers also discussed ways to ensure security and stability in the Asia-Pacific regions considering the US’s policy to create limited-membership closed military-political alliances there, which are anti-Russia and anti-China.
Separate matters related to the developments around the Korean peninsula and Taiwan, as well as within the Middle Eastern settlement process, were discussed, as well as prospects of forming new security architecture in Eurasia against the backdrop of stagnating Euro-Atlantic mechanisms.
<...>
The talks, held in Beijing in a traditionally trustful and friendly atmosphere, showed the two countries’ converging approaches to the major global processes and reaffirmed the importance of further promoting bilateral cooperation for strengthening peace and stability in the region and on the whole planet.
Read in full
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🇷🇺🇨🇳 On May 20, FM Sergey Lavrov met with Foreign Minister of the People’s Republic of China Wang Yi on the sidelines of the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Astana.
<...>
The Ministers highlighted the critical significance of highest-level engagements in advancing the deepening of comprehensive partnership relations and strategic interaction between both nations. They delved into the substantive discussion regarding the execution of agreements made during the Beijing summit, along with addressing various other topics on the bilateral agenda.
They also exchanged opinions on the current status and future prospects of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The foreign ministers of Russia and China acknowledged the joint efforts of member states in upholding peace and stability in Eurasia. They also highlighted the increasing influence of the Organisation on global and regional affairs.
🤝 The Ministers reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing mutual coordination within the #UN, its Security Council, as well as the #SCO, #BRICS, the #G20, #APEC and other key international organisations and dialogue platforms. Various pressing issues were addressed, including the Middle East peace process, developments in the Red Sea region, and the situation on the Korean Peninsula. <...>
Sergey Lavrov thanked the Chinese partners for their well-balanced stance on resolving the Ukrainian crisis and appreciated Chinese President Xi Jinping’s proposal to convene a peace conference with an equal participation by Russia and Ukraine, considering Moscow’s legitimate security interests and the current situation.
🌏 There was a thorough discussion regarding the situation in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly concerning the increased provocative actions by the United States and its allies. These actions aim to involve specific Asia-Pacific nations in narrow-bloc arrangements, undermining the #ASEAN-centric security framework and deploying destabilising weapon systems in the region.
Read in full
#RussiaChina
<...>
The Ministers highlighted the critical significance of highest-level engagements in advancing the deepening of comprehensive partnership relations and strategic interaction between both nations. They delved into the substantive discussion regarding the execution of agreements made during the Beijing summit, along with addressing various other topics on the bilateral agenda.
They also exchanged opinions on the current status and future prospects of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The foreign ministers of Russia and China acknowledged the joint efforts of member states in upholding peace and stability in Eurasia. They also highlighted the increasing influence of the Organisation on global and regional affairs.
🤝 The Ministers reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing mutual coordination within the #UN, its Security Council, as well as the #SCO, #BRICS, the #G20, #APEC and other key international organisations and dialogue platforms. Various pressing issues were addressed, including the Middle East peace process, developments in the Red Sea region, and the situation on the Korean Peninsula. <...>
Sergey Lavrov thanked the Chinese partners for their well-balanced stance on resolving the Ukrainian crisis and appreciated Chinese President Xi Jinping’s proposal to convene a peace conference with an equal participation by Russia and Ukraine, considering Moscow’s legitimate security interests and the current situation.
🌏 There was a thorough discussion regarding the situation in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly concerning the increased provocative actions by the United States and its allies. These actions aim to involve specific Asia-Pacific nations in narrow-bloc arrangements, undermining the #ASEAN-centric security framework and deploying destabilising weapon systems in the region.
Read in full
#RussiaChina
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🇷🇺🇿🇦 On June 10, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa Naledi Pandor on the sidelines of the #BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting in Nizhny Novgorod.
The meeting focused on topical issues of bilateral strategical partnership, with an emphasis on expanding trade and economic cooperation. Both Parties expressed an interest in deepening political dialogue and reaffirmed their commitment to effective cooperation at the #UN, #BRICS, the #G20 and other international platforms.
The participants also discussed further opportunities for the contribution of South Africa and a number of other representatives of the Global South in finding solutions to the Ukraine crisis proceeding from the common understanding of the origins and causes of the crisis.
During the discussion on Middle East issues, concerns were raised about the ongoing escalation in the zone of the Palestinian-Israeli confrontation. Additionally, the Ministers considered some aspects of the current situation in Africa and Europe.
#RussiaSouthAfrica
The meeting focused on topical issues of bilateral strategical partnership, with an emphasis on expanding trade and economic cooperation. Both Parties expressed an interest in deepening political dialogue and reaffirmed their commitment to effective cooperation at the #UN, #BRICS, the #G20 and other international platforms.
The participants also discussed further opportunities for the contribution of South Africa and a number of other representatives of the Global South in finding solutions to the Ukraine crisis proceeding from the common understanding of the origins and causes of the crisis.
During the discussion on Middle East issues, concerns were raised about the ongoing escalation in the zone of the Palestinian-Israeli confrontation. Additionally, the Ministers considered some aspects of the current situation in Africa and Europe.
#RussiaSouthAfrica
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🇷🇺🇧🇾 Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s opening remarks during a meeting with President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko (Minsk, June 25, 2024)
💬 Thank you for your kind words about the foreign ministries of our countries. We do our best to achieve the strategic goals that you and President of Russia Vladimir Putin have set in foreign policy, and to organise our foreign political activities in a manner that provides diplomatic support for integration.
Yesterday, we signed the Joint Statement on the Main Foreign Policy Tasks of the Union Integration of Russia and Belarus. The statement directs us to always consider the interests of the Union State rather than the interests of Minsk or Moscow separately when strengthening our coordination.
All the agreements concerning the Shanghai Cooperation Organisations have been finalised. As the first act of the Summit in Astana, Belarus will be officially accepted as a full #SCO Member State. Minsk will participate in all events on par with the other members.
🌐 We can report on other matters as well. Yesterday, we held a detailed discussion about the #UN and the #OSCE. You are fortunate in that Belarus was never a member of the Council of Europe, so you did not have to withdraw.
Eurasian security are under discussion as well. Both you and Vladimir Putin have voiced your proposals.
<...>
👉 Mr Aleinik and I discussed how to promote the concept of Eurasian security and get more like-minded Parties involved. I believe this concept has good prospects.
Read in full
#RussiaBelarus #UnionState
💬 Thank you for your kind words about the foreign ministries of our countries. We do our best to achieve the strategic goals that you and President of Russia Vladimir Putin have set in foreign policy, and to organise our foreign political activities in a manner that provides diplomatic support for integration.
Yesterday, we signed the Joint Statement on the Main Foreign Policy Tasks of the Union Integration of Russia and Belarus. The statement directs us to always consider the interests of the Union State rather than the interests of Minsk or Moscow separately when strengthening our coordination.
All the agreements concerning the Shanghai Cooperation Organisations have been finalised. As the first act of the Summit in Astana, Belarus will be officially accepted as a full #SCO Member State. Minsk will participate in all events on par with the other members.
🌐 We can report on other matters as well. Yesterday, we held a detailed discussion about the #UN and the #OSCE. You are fortunate in that Belarus was never a member of the Council of Europe, so you did not have to withdraw.
Eurasian security are under discussion as well. Both you and Vladimir Putin have voiced your proposals.
<...>
👉 Mr Aleinik and I discussed how to promote the concept of Eurasian security and get more like-minded Parties involved. I believe this concept has good prospects.
Read in full
#RussiaBelarus #UnionState
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙 Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s answers to questions of the Moscow. Kremlin. Putin TV programme (3 July 2024, Astana)
❓ Question: How were the talks with President of China?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Excellent. We share a complete understanding.
❓ Question: What issues were discussed first?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: The entire range of issues on our bilateral agenda and of our cooperation on the global stage, including #UN, #BRICS, #SCO, and various other formats.
❓ Question: Were the Ukrainian settlement process and President Vladimir Putin’s peace plan discussed?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: These positions are well known. China firmly supports a peaceful settlement. We share this approach. We have repeatedly commented on Chinese initiatives.
However, as you know, Ukraine rejects any attempts to negotiate. Zelensky’s executive order prohibits negotiating with Russia. The West does not want Ukraine to stop this war that it unleashed against Russia with Ukrainians’ hands.
Several days ago, our well-known pranksters Vovan and Leksus talked with Hillary Clinton (on behalf of Petr Poroshenko) who said directly that their common deed must be continued by all means. This is what the current situation looks like.
❓ Question: How were the talks with President of China?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Excellent. We share a complete understanding.
❓ Question: What issues were discussed first?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: The entire range of issues on our bilateral agenda and of our cooperation on the global stage, including #UN, #BRICS, #SCO, and various other formats.
❓ Question: Were the Ukrainian settlement process and President Vladimir Putin’s peace plan discussed?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: These positions are well known. China firmly supports a peaceful settlement. We share this approach. We have repeatedly commented on Chinese initiatives.
However, as you know, Ukraine rejects any attempts to negotiate. Zelensky’s executive order prohibits negotiating with Russia. The West does not want Ukraine to stop this war that it unleashed against Russia with Ukrainians’ hands.
Several days ago, our well-known pranksters Vovan and Leksus talked with Hillary Clinton (on behalf of Petr Poroshenko) who said directly that their common deed must be continued by all means. This is what the current situation looks like.
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🌐 A meeting in the SCO Plus format was held in Astana.
Taking part in the meeting were:
• the Leaders of #SCO Member States,
• the Heads of delegations from SCO observer countries and dialogue partners,
• the Heads of international organisations (the #UN, the #EEC, the Islamic Organisation for Food Security, the #CSTO, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, #CICA, and the #CIS);
• the guests of Kazakhstan’s Presidency.
The Russian delegation attending the meeting includes Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office and Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov, and Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov.
The theme of the SCO Plus meeting is Strengthening Multilateral Dialogue – Striving for Sustainable Peace and Development. The agenda includes international and regional issues related to the SCO’s cooperation with invited countries.
***
💬 Vladimir Putin: I believe the growing interest in the work of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation stems from our core values and ideals: a commitment to pursuing a sovereign and independent policy, alongside a collaborative approach with other countries to find collective solutions to global problems. These principles resonate with many around the world. <...>
It is evident that the SCO is now one of the biggest and most influential regional organisations. <...>
☝️ The world is becoming genuinely multipolar, with an increasing number of states ready to decisively assert their legitimate rights and interests. New centres of power are emerging, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is solidifying its position as one of these key centres.
<...>
We appreciate the sincere and concrete proposals from SCO member countries for the peaceful resolution of the Ukrainian crisis, a result of the reckless and intrusive policies of the United States and its satellites.
As you know, Russia has never refused to negotiate, and is now ready to continue peace talks. It is Ukraine that withdrew from the talks, and it also did so publicly, on direct orders from London – which means Washington was also involved, there is no doubt about it – as Ukrainian officials have admitted bluntly and openly.
❗️ The Istanbul agreements – we have to give credit to the President of Türkiye, Mr Erdogan, for agreeing to be part of that process as a mediator – are still on the table.
<...>
🤝 The SCO Member States coordinate their actions on the international track, including at the United Nations, and their foreign policy approaches are largely in accord or closely aligned.
Read in full
Taking part in the meeting were:
• the Leaders of #SCO Member States,
• the Heads of delegations from SCO observer countries and dialogue partners,
• the Heads of international organisations (the #UN, the #EEC, the Islamic Organisation for Food Security, the #CSTO, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, #CICA, and the #CIS);
• the guests of Kazakhstan’s Presidency.
The Russian delegation attending the meeting includes Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office and Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov, and Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov.
The theme of the SCO Plus meeting is Strengthening Multilateral Dialogue – Striving for Sustainable Peace and Development. The agenda includes international and regional issues related to the SCO’s cooperation with invited countries.
***
💬 Vladimir Putin: I believe the growing interest in the work of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation stems from our core values and ideals: a commitment to pursuing a sovereign and independent policy, alongside a collaborative approach with other countries to find collective solutions to global problems. These principles resonate with many around the world. <...>
It is evident that the SCO is now one of the biggest and most influential regional organisations. <...>
☝️ The world is becoming genuinely multipolar, with an increasing number of states ready to decisively assert their legitimate rights and interests. New centres of power are emerging, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is solidifying its position as one of these key centres.
<...>
We appreciate the sincere and concrete proposals from SCO member countries for the peaceful resolution of the Ukrainian crisis, a result of the reckless and intrusive policies of the United States and its satellites.
As you know, Russia has never refused to negotiate, and is now ready to continue peace talks. It is Ukraine that withdrew from the talks, and it also did so publicly, on direct orders from London – which means Washington was also involved, there is no doubt about it – as Ukrainian officials have admitted bluntly and openly.
❗️ The Istanbul agreements – we have to give credit to the President of Türkiye, Mr Erdogan, for agreeing to be part of that process as a mediator – are still on the table.
<...>
🤝 The SCO Member States coordinate their actions on the international track, including at the United Nations, and their foreign policy approaches are largely in accord or closely aligned.
Read in full
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🇷🇺🇮🇳 President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, on an official visit to Russia, held talks in the Grand Kremlin Palace.
💬 Vladimir Putin: Mr Prime Minister, this is your first official visit after your reappointment following parliamentary elections. I would like to congratulate you on this once again.
Our countries have long-time friendship and good relations that have evolved over the decades. This year, we are marking the 77th Anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Today, our relations have the status of a specially privileged strategic partnership. We are in permanent contact, and we prioritise the development of trade and economic ties. Certainly, their development meets the interests of the people of India and the peoples of the Russian Federation.
📈 Last year, our trade soared by 60 percent and even more, by 66 percent; it increased by an additional 20 percent in the first quarter of 2024.
🌐 We cooperate closely on the international arena, including at international organisations, primarily the #UN and such associations as the #SCO and #BRICS.
Yesterday, we had an opportunity to discuss virtually all practical issues in an informal setting. I am grateful to you for devoting attention to the most acute issues and for trying to find some options for resolving the Ukraine crisis, primarily by peaceful methods.
Mr Prime Minister, we will be delighted to see you in Kazan this autumn at the upcoming BRICS Summit.
At the end of my opening remarks, I would like to wish you new successes in facilitating the development of the Indian state. You and I know each other for a long time, and I know that your entire life is devoted to implementing the idea of strengthening the Indian state and improving the life of the people of India.
Read in full
#RussiaIndia
💬 Vladimir Putin: Mr Prime Minister, this is your first official visit after your reappointment following parliamentary elections. I would like to congratulate you on this once again.
Our countries have long-time friendship and good relations that have evolved over the decades. This year, we are marking the 77th Anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Today, our relations have the status of a specially privileged strategic partnership. We are in permanent contact, and we prioritise the development of trade and economic ties. Certainly, their development meets the interests of the people of India and the peoples of the Russian Federation.
📈 Last year, our trade soared by 60 percent and even more, by 66 percent; it increased by an additional 20 percent in the first quarter of 2024.
🌐 We cooperate closely on the international arena, including at international organisations, primarily the #UN and such associations as the #SCO and #BRICS.
Yesterday, we had an opportunity to discuss virtually all practical issues in an informal setting. I am grateful to you for devoting attention to the most acute issues and for trying to find some options for resolving the Ukraine crisis, primarily by peaceful methods.
Mr Prime Minister, we will be delighted to see you in Kazan this autumn at the upcoming BRICS Summit.
At the end of my opening remarks, I would like to wish you new successes in facilitating the development of the Indian state. You and I know each other for a long time, and I know that your entire life is devoted to implementing the idea of strengthening the Indian state and improving the life of the people of India.
Read in full
#RussiaIndia
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
⚡️ On the human rights situation in Czech Republic — Joint Report of Russia's and Belarus' MFAs
❌ There are chronic problems that the authorities of the country do not intend to solve, engaging instead in destructive foreign policy actions, including in their interaction with Russia.
The areas of concern from the viewpoint of human rights protection in Czech Republic include:
🔻 Neo-Nazi forces activity
The Czech publishing house "Naše vojsko" offered a calendar with photos of representatives of the leadership of the Third Reich, the occupation administration on Czech territory, and other Nazi criminals. There is evidence of monuments and memorials to the Nazis being erected (and restored).
🔻 Incidents of Russophobia
Natives of Russia living in the Czech Republic face discrimination in local universities – refusal to study and accept exams by the teaching staff.
In June 2023, Czech President Petr Pavel called on intelligence agencies to monitor all Russians living in the West, citing US World War II practices against the Japanese population, including the placement of Japanese in concentration camps. <...>
Not only the citizens of Russia, but also its diplomatic representatives have faced manifestations of aggression in the Czech Republic.
The Czech government suspended the issuance of visas and long-term and permanent residence permits to citizens of the Russian Federation.
🔻 Racism and Anti-Semitism
Multilateral universal and regional human rights monitoring bodies have documented, inter alia, the prevalence of racist ideas and prejudices in the country, racially motivated crimes such as property attacks, threats and attacks against Roma, Jews, migrants and minority activists.
In particular, that hatred against Muslims, migrants and Jews was widespread in the country, with Islamophobia and migrantophobia having become a feature of mainstream politics over the past five years. <...>
Official statistics show an increase in the number of antsemitic crimes. There have been recorded 1128 incidents motivated by antisemitism. In 2022, the number of reported incidents nearly doubled to 2277. Almost all antisemitic incidents in 2022 involved the publication of texts, illustrations or statements containing hate speech in the media or on the Internet: 2265 incidents. Of these, 2211 incidents took place online, and 1642 — on social networks.
🔻 Problems related to the protection of children's rights
The #UN Committee on the Rights of the Child expressed extreme concern about the high incidence of sexual exploitation and abuse of children in the country, as well as discrimination against Roma children.
A large number of families with children struggling to afford housing due to the "benefit-free zone" policy. <...>
📄 Read in full
❌ There are chronic problems that the authorities of the country do not intend to solve, engaging instead in destructive foreign policy actions, including in their interaction with Russia.
The areas of concern from the viewpoint of human rights protection in Czech Republic include:
🔻 Neo-Nazi forces activity
The Czech publishing house "Naše vojsko" offered a calendar with photos of representatives of the leadership of the Third Reich, the occupation administration on Czech territory, and other Nazi criminals. There is evidence of monuments and memorials to the Nazis being erected (and restored).
🔻 Incidents of Russophobia
Natives of Russia living in the Czech Republic face discrimination in local universities – refusal to study and accept exams by the teaching staff.
In June 2023, Czech President Petr Pavel called on intelligence agencies to monitor all Russians living in the West, citing US World War II practices against the Japanese population, including the placement of Japanese in concentration camps. <...>
Not only the citizens of Russia, but also its diplomatic representatives have faced manifestations of aggression in the Czech Republic.
The Czech government suspended the issuance of visas and long-term and permanent residence permits to citizens of the Russian Federation.
🔻 Racism and Anti-Semitism
Multilateral universal and regional human rights monitoring bodies have documented, inter alia, the prevalence of racist ideas and prejudices in the country, racially motivated crimes such as property attacks, threats and attacks against Roma, Jews, migrants and minority activists.
In particular, that hatred against Muslims, migrants and Jews was widespread in the country, with Islamophobia and migrantophobia having become a feature of mainstream politics over the past five years. <...>
Official statistics show an increase in the number of antsemitic crimes. There have been recorded 1128 incidents motivated by antisemitism. In 2022, the number of reported incidents nearly doubled to 2277. Almost all antisemitic incidents in 2022 involved the publication of texts, illustrations or statements containing hate speech in the media or on the Internet: 2265 incidents. Of these, 2211 incidents took place online, and 1642 — on social networks.
🔻 Problems related to the protection of children's rights
The #UN Committee on the Rights of the Child expressed extreme concern about the high incidence of sexual exploitation and abuse of children in the country, as well as discrimination against Roma children.
A large number of families with children struggling to afford housing due to the "benefit-free zone" policy. <...>
📄 Read in full
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🇷🇺🇦🇿 From the Joint Statement of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin on the results of bilateral talks with President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev (19 August 2024)
💬 Vladimir Putin: Russia attaches great importance to developing a comprehensive and friendly relationship with Azerbaijan. This relationship is based on the principles of equality, respect for each other's interests, and, of course, the close personal and cultural ties that have brought our nations together for centuries now.
The Joint Statement we adopted outlines ambitious goals for advancing our bilateral relations dynamically. Additionally, the documents signed today will support the achievement of these goals.
The key economic cooperation issues are constantly monitored by our colleagues on the intergovernmental commission. Its latest meeting, held in Baku ahead of our visit, was highly productive.
Cultural ties are actively expanding. In June, Azerbaijan successfully hosted Days of Russian Culture, featuring exhibitions, concerts, theatrical performances, and other vibrant cultural events.
We also touched upon current international developments. In foreign policy, both our countries firmly adhere to the principles of the supremacy of international law, the sovereignty of states and non-interference in their internal affairs.
🤝 Russia and Azerbaijan closely coordinate their efforts at key multilateral platforms, including the #UN and naturally, the Commonwealth of Independent States. We will be delighted to see the President of Azerbaijan at the meeting of the CIS Heads of State Council in Moscow in October, as well as at the outreach meeting to be held in the same month as part of the #BRICS summit in Kazan. <...>
Russia will continue to make utmost efforts towards the normalisation of Azerbaijani-Armenian interaction and the conclusion of a peace treaty based on the well-known trilateral agreements reached by the presidents of Russia and Azerbaijan and the Prime Minister of Armenia between 2020 and 2022.
☝️ I am sure that the talks held and the agreements reached today will serve to further strengthen the strategic partnership between Russia and Azerbaijan.
#RussiaAzerbaijan
💬 Vladimir Putin: Russia attaches great importance to developing a comprehensive and friendly relationship with Azerbaijan. This relationship is based on the principles of equality, respect for each other's interests, and, of course, the close personal and cultural ties that have brought our nations together for centuries now.
The Joint Statement we adopted outlines ambitious goals for advancing our bilateral relations dynamically. Additionally, the documents signed today will support the achievement of these goals.
The key economic cooperation issues are constantly monitored by our colleagues on the intergovernmental commission. Its latest meeting, held in Baku ahead of our visit, was highly productive.
Cultural ties are actively expanding. In June, Azerbaijan successfully hosted Days of Russian Culture, featuring exhibitions, concerts, theatrical performances, and other vibrant cultural events.
We also touched upon current international developments. In foreign policy, both our countries firmly adhere to the principles of the supremacy of international law, the sovereignty of states and non-interference in their internal affairs.
🤝 Russia and Azerbaijan closely coordinate their efforts at key multilateral platforms, including the #UN and naturally, the Commonwealth of Independent States. We will be delighted to see the President of Azerbaijan at the meeting of the CIS Heads of State Council in Moscow in October, as well as at the outreach meeting to be held in the same month as part of the #BRICS summit in Kazan. <...>
Russia will continue to make utmost efforts towards the normalisation of Azerbaijani-Armenian interaction and the conclusion of a peace treaty based on the well-known trilateral agreements reached by the presidents of Russia and Azerbaijan and the Prime Minister of Armenia between 2020 and 2022.
☝️ I am sure that the talks held and the agreements reached today will serve to further strengthen the strategic partnership between Russia and Azerbaijan.
#RussiaAzerbaijan
Today, September 5, marks the tenth anniversary of the signing of the Minsk Protocol
⚠️ This document contained specific agreements between Kiev, Donetsk People’s Republic and Lugansk People’s Republic for the peaceful settlement of the #Ukrainian conflict, which arose as a result of the coup d'état on Maidan and Kiev's military operation against Donbass that followed.
Later, in February 2015, the “Package of Measures for the Implementation of the Minsk Agreements” was adopted. This package was approved by the #UN Security Council. According to its provisions, peace was supposed to prevail in Donbass by the end of 2015, and efforts towards the socio-economic recovery of the region were to begin.
❗️ Faithful and consistent implementation of the Minsk agreements by Kiev was the only chance to bring peace back to Ukraine.
❌ Unfortunately, these agreements were never implemented. The Ukrainian government did not seize the opportunity for peace and instead sought to resolve the conflict by force. Both the former German Chancellor and the former President of France, who were guarantor countries of the Agreement, have admitted and publicly stated that they never intended to honour the agreements. Those who acted as guarantors of the Minsk Agreements cynically used the respite to arm the Ukrainian military and prepare it for a war with Russia.
☝️ In this situation, Russia had no right to step aside. Once we realized that all possible measures of political and diplomatic settlement had been exhausted and there was no other way to protect the people in the LPR and DPR from extermination, Russia recognised the independence of Donbass Republics and launched the special military operation.
#CrisisInUkraine #MinskAgreements
⚠️ This document contained specific agreements between Kiev, Donetsk People’s Republic and Lugansk People’s Republic for the peaceful settlement of the #Ukrainian conflict, which arose as a result of the coup d'état on Maidan and Kiev's military operation against Donbass that followed.
Later, in February 2015, the “Package of Measures for the Implementation of the Minsk Agreements” was adopted. This package was approved by the #UN Security Council. According to its provisions, peace was supposed to prevail in Donbass by the end of 2015, and efforts towards the socio-economic recovery of the region were to begin.
❗️ Faithful and consistent implementation of the Minsk agreements by Kiev was the only chance to bring peace back to Ukraine.
❌ Unfortunately, these agreements were never implemented. The Ukrainian government did not seize the opportunity for peace and instead sought to resolve the conflict by force. Both the former German Chancellor and the former President of France, who were guarantor countries of the Agreement, have admitted and publicly stated that they never intended to honour the agreements. Those who acted as guarantors of the Minsk Agreements cynically used the respite to arm the Ukrainian military and prepare it for a war with Russia.
☝️ In this situation, Russia had no right to step aside. Once we realized that all possible measures of political and diplomatic settlement had been exhausted and there was no other way to protect the people in the LPR and DPR from extermination, Russia recognised the independence of Donbass Republics and launched the special military operation.
#CrisisInUkraine #MinskAgreements
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s interview to Newsweek magazine (October 7, 2024)
❓Question: As the Ukraine conflict continues, how different is Russia's position than in 2022 and how are the costs of conflict being weighed against the progress made toward strategic objectives?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Our position is widely known and remains unchanged. Russia is open to a politico-diplomatic settlement that should remove the root causes of the crisis.
It should aim to end the conflict rather than achieve a ceasefire. The West should stop supplying weapons, and Kiev should end the hostilities.
👉 Ukraine should return to its neutral, non-bloc and non-nuclear status, protect the Russian language, and respect the rights and freedoms of its citizens.
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On 14 June, Russian President Vladimir Putin listed prerequisites for the settlement as follows: complete AFU withdrawal from the DPR, LPR, Zaporozhye and Kherson Oblasts; recognition of territorial realities as enshrined in the Russian Constitution; neutral, non-bloc, non-nuclear status for Ukraine; its demilitarization and denazification; securing the rights, freedoms and interests of Russian-speaking citizens; and removal of all sanctions against Russia.
Kiev responded to this statement by an armed incursion into the Kursk Oblast on 6 August. Its patrons – the US and other NATO countries – seek to inflict a «strategic defeat» on Russia. Under the circumstances, we have no choice but to continue our special military operation until the threats posed by Ukraine are removed. <...>
❓Question: How likely do you think it is that a military or diplomatic solution can be achieved, or do you see a greater risk of the conflict spiraling into something even larger with Ukrainian forces receiving more advanced NATO weaponry and entering Russian territory?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Making guesses is not my job. What I want to say is that we have been trying to extinguish this crisis for more than a decade, yet each time we put to paper agreements that suite everyone, Kiev and its masters would backpedal. <...>
At present, as far as we can see, restoring peace is not part of our adversary's plan. Zelensky has not revoked his decree banning negotiations with Moscow. Washington and its NATO allies provide political, military and financial support to Kiev so that the war would go on. They are discussing authorizing the AFU to use Western long-range missiles to strike deep into Russian territory. "Playing with fire" in this way may lead to dangerous consequences. As stated by President Putin, we will take adequate decisions based on our understanding of the threats posed by the West. It is up to you to make conclusions.
❓Question: What concrete plans does Russia have in line with its strategic partnerships with China and other powers to achieve changes in the current world order and how do you expect these ambitions to play out in areas of intense competition and conflict, including the Middle East?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: What we have in mind is that the world order needs be adjusted to the current realities. Today the world is living through the "multipolar moment". Shifting towards the multi-polar world order is a natural part of power rebalancing, which reflects objective changes in the world economy, finance and geopolitics. The West waited longer than the others, yet it has also started to realize that this process is irreversible.
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Multipolarity manifests itself in the increasing role of regional associations, such as the #EAEU, #SCO, #ASEAN, #AfricanUnion, #CELAC and others. #BRICS has become a model of multilateral diplomacy. The #UN should remain a forum for aligning the interests of all the countries.
Read in full
❓Question: As the Ukraine conflict continues, how different is Russia's position than in 2022 and how are the costs of conflict being weighed against the progress made toward strategic objectives?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Our position is widely known and remains unchanged. Russia is open to a politico-diplomatic settlement that should remove the root causes of the crisis.
It should aim to end the conflict rather than achieve a ceasefire. The West should stop supplying weapons, and Kiev should end the hostilities.
👉 Ukraine should return to its neutral, non-bloc and non-nuclear status, protect the Russian language, and respect the rights and freedoms of its citizens.
<...>
On 14 June, Russian President Vladimir Putin listed prerequisites for the settlement as follows: complete AFU withdrawal from the DPR, LPR, Zaporozhye and Kherson Oblasts; recognition of territorial realities as enshrined in the Russian Constitution; neutral, non-bloc, non-nuclear status for Ukraine; its demilitarization and denazification; securing the rights, freedoms and interests of Russian-speaking citizens; and removal of all sanctions against Russia.
Kiev responded to this statement by an armed incursion into the Kursk Oblast on 6 August. Its patrons – the US and other NATO countries – seek to inflict a «strategic defeat» on Russia. Under the circumstances, we have no choice but to continue our special military operation until the threats posed by Ukraine are removed. <...>
❓Question: How likely do you think it is that a military or diplomatic solution can be achieved, or do you see a greater risk of the conflict spiraling into something even larger with Ukrainian forces receiving more advanced NATO weaponry and entering Russian territory?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Making guesses is not my job. What I want to say is that we have been trying to extinguish this crisis for more than a decade, yet each time we put to paper agreements that suite everyone, Kiev and its masters would backpedal. <...>
At present, as far as we can see, restoring peace is not part of our adversary's plan. Zelensky has not revoked his decree banning negotiations with Moscow. Washington and its NATO allies provide political, military and financial support to Kiev so that the war would go on. They are discussing authorizing the AFU to use Western long-range missiles to strike deep into Russian territory. "Playing with fire" in this way may lead to dangerous consequences. As stated by President Putin, we will take adequate decisions based on our understanding of the threats posed by the West. It is up to you to make conclusions.
❓Question: What concrete plans does Russia have in line with its strategic partnerships with China and other powers to achieve changes in the current world order and how do you expect these ambitions to play out in areas of intense competition and conflict, including the Middle East?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: What we have in mind is that the world order needs be adjusted to the current realities. Today the world is living through the "multipolar moment". Shifting towards the multi-polar world order is a natural part of power rebalancing, which reflects objective changes in the world economy, finance and geopolitics. The West waited longer than the others, yet it has also started to realize that this process is irreversible.
<...>
Multipolarity manifests itself in the increasing role of regional associations, such as the #EAEU, #SCO, #ASEAN, #AfricanUnion, #CELAC and others. #BRICS has become a model of multilateral diplomacy. The #UN should remain a forum for aligning the interests of all the countries.
Read in full