VP/HR — EU-Russia dialogue
27.1.2015
Question for written answer E-001115-15
to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)
Rule 130
Aymeric Chauprade (NI)
On Monday, 19 January 2015, the EU foreign ministers decided to maintain their firm stance towards Russia, including on the issue of sanctions.
You yourself, an advocate of a resumption of dialogue between the EU and Moscow, said the following: ‘This was a unanimous decision, and those people who expected to see divisions emerging in the EU will be a little disappointed’.
1. Does dialogue not imply a willingness, and not a refusal, to talk?
2. Are your remarks not somewhat at odds with the Union’s watchword of ‘United in diversity’?
3. Should we not be seeking dialogue with a view to overcoming the artificial obstacles to good relations between Russia and the EU?