Relations between the EU and Russia

PURPOSE: to propose a European Parliament recommendation to the Council on relations between the European Union and Russia.

CONTENT: pursuant to Rule 114(1) of the Rules of Procedure, Janusz ONYSZKIEWICZ (ALDE, PL) proposed, on behalf of the ALDE Group, a draft recommendation on relations between the European Union and Russia.

The draft recommendation highlights the huge importance of Russia to European and world stability and prosperity and underlines the EU’s commitment to achieving a strategic partnership with Russia based on democratic values. There is, however, an increased need for a firm, robust and comprehensive EU policy on Russia.

In this context, the Parliament addresses the following recommendations to the Council:

• to continue to work on a solution to the trade issues that are currently blocking the start of the negotiations on a new Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and Russia;
• to devise a clear strategy on how to increase Russia's implementation of democratic rules and respect for fundamental values – the common values that must form the base for future relations;
• to continue to work for Russia's accession to the WTO and its acceptance of modern investment and business rules as guiding principles in a truly independent private sector;
• to continue to work on the prospect of Russia's adherence to the Energy Charter and the positive outcome of the ratification process.