By A. Lianou
The committee’s procedure and formal discussion begun with each party’s main positions concerning the pressing matters of EU and Russia’s relations in a variety of fields such as energy supply, protection against violations of human rights, Russia’s expanding policy towards Eastern Europe, the already existing sanctions against Russia as well as the maintenance of stability inside the European neighborhood.
Firstly, the ECR’s members spoke and set their priorities regarding the protection of human rights and the fight against Russia’s propaganda mechanism, their skepticism regarding further collaboration both politically and financially with eastern European nations as they were previously attached to Russia’s sphere of influence. They also mentioned that EU should increase its cooperation with NATO as well as the United States, they stated that sanctions against Russia have to be maintained.
The second party the EPP cited that Russia needs to be a partner of the EU especially because of the energy reliance. They were also concerned about Russia’s intervention on Eastern Europe but they believe that the already restrictions should be reexamined. A consistent union fighting together against all threats can form a strategy in order to reinforce stability and democracy while defending the European values.
The speech of ALDE members focused on the necessity of the implementation of Minsk Agreement, they also supported the existing sanctions by actually mentioning the need to strengthen them in order to restore international law. The leader of the party indicated the deterioration of relations between EU and Russia caused by the collapse of Minsk Agreement as well as the recent chemical attacks in Syria.
Later, the S&D members emphasized on the need to fulfill every part of the Minsk Agreement. Furthermore, they expressed their skepticism concerning current Russian regime and their anxiety about the constant change of Russia’s foreign policy. About the sanctions, they said that their maintenance is not the solution, because the continuance of a hostile attitude towards Russia will no be efficient.
Last but not least GUE/NGL speakers defended the already existing collaboration between EU and Russia, citing that Russia is not a threat and therefore sanctions should be replaced by humanitarian actions as the restrictions gradually resulted to the loss of the jobs of many people both within the EU and Russia.
The conclusion of the first session came with the discussion of the current Ukraine situation and how Ukraine could step out of the crisis with the help of EU. During the discussion ALDE members made clear that Russian imperialistic policy should be blocked. EPP proposed a tighter collaboration among EU and Eastern Neighborhood Countries so they will be more able to manage and encounter Russian aggressions. S&D recognized Russian interference on the Ukrainian Situation and they underlined the critical need to implement Minsk Agreement, position which was also stated by ECR. GUE/NGL promulgated the need to follow a peaceful and step-by-step procedure while having in mind the common interest of all parties evolved in the Ukrainian crisis.
