Oostlander (PPE-DE). – (NL) Mr President, Parliament has, in the past, adopted a two-track policy with regard to Russia, and it has done so with total conviction. This translates, on the one hand, into cooperation, where possible, across the board, particularly in all the areas where it can help bring about the cultural change in Russia in order to move towards a constitutional state and more democratic relations. This also, however, entails criticism, where necessary. This is why we must state our opinions in no uncertain terms. This policy, therefore, embraces not just one, but both elements. Listening to the President-in-Office of the Council, I have to say that we in this House have already achieved many of the things he lists, and now they are again included in the resolution. Why is it that you now sound so very different from what we remember from the summit? What strikes me in particular, is that you have specifically mentioned Moldova, and the timeframe for the withdrawal of the troops. You have also spoken about Arjan Erkel. I am very indebted to you for raising this issue and bringing it here today. That is extremely important.

From the press and your statement, however, it seems that Chechnya has not been given much attention. You have given a justification for this. Yet, this is very dangerous, for the public at large is interested in your summit meetings and wants to know what is on the agenda, whether the ideals and values of our European citizens have been mentioned and have determined your conduct. This is why I would have preferred what you have stated here to also have been included in your statement. We would probably also have responded in a slightly different way.

I have to say that I find the Commissioner’s approach very clear. For a very long time, the Russians have insisted on a very specific and practical approach, preferring cash on the nail to grand ideas. I think that the Russians are right in this, and that we, while continuing to adopt our two-track policy, can tackle very specific issues, particularly in the area of contacts among scientists. Cooperation with Russia in that field has not always been easy. In my opinion, however, this scientific cooperation is extremely important in the light of Russia’s cultural change.

I hope, therefore, that the Council will continue along these lines and that the impression that has been created by a few personal remarks will soon change, for otherwise your presidency will be placed in a bad light.