Rada adopts statement against attempts to return Russian delegation to PACE

Ukraine's Verkhovna Rada has adopted a statement in which it expressed its position regarding attempts by the PACE leadership to reinstate the powers of the Russian delegation by amending the PACE rules of procedure at Russia's request.

A total of 242 people's deputies voted in favor of the adoption of respective draft resolution No. 9089 "On the Statement of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine in Connection with the Situation in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe," an Ukrinform correspondent of Ukrinforma reports.

"The preparation of a decision to change the rules of procedure of the Assembly with regard to the abolition of the possibilities for appealing the powers of national delegations on substantive grounds or substantial complication of the order of such an appeal is politically motivated and is intended to ensure the unhindered and unconditional return of the delegation of the Russian Federation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe amid the categorical refusal of this state from complying with the lawful requirements of the Assembly related to the violation by Russia of the Statute of the Council of Europe and duties and commitments voluntarily assumed as part of its membership in the Council of Europe, as well as the support by Russian parliamentarians of the aggressive policy of the Russian leadership," reads the statement.

It is expected that the adoption of this resolution will contribute to the protection of the national interests of Ukraine and its citizens amid Russian aggression, as well as familiarize members of the parliaments of the member states of the Council of Europe with systemic violations by Russia of its obligations assumed within the framework of the Council of Europe.

The co-authors emphasize that the statement will become another factor in collective efforts by the international community aimed at ending Russia's shameful practices and attempts to eliminate the principles of the most authoritative Assembly in the European continent, which protects the principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

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