Press Release

03/03/2008

Russia: develop a partnership with the European Union. Joseph Daul MEP, Chairman of the EPP-ED Group

Commenting on the Russian Presidential elections, Joseph Daul MEP, Chairman of the EPP-ED Group (Centre-Right) in the European Parliament, said that he hopes the election of Dimitry Medvedev will bring about a new direction in relations between the European Union and Russia.

"Both sides have different points of view on a number of subjects, notably on the question of human rights, a subject which must be broached directly and constructively", declared Daul.

"But both sides also have common interests in sensitive areas such as security or energy. It is up to Russian and European leaders to work more closely together to ensure peace and prosperity for our peoples."

"The planned strategic partnership between Brussels and Moscow should be formalised once the conditions have been met and if possible, after the EU-Russia Summit on 26-27 June in Siberia."

"The Presidency of the EPP-ED Group, the most influential political force in Europe, shall meet in Russia directly before this summit and will reiterate its message to the Russian authorities", concluded Mr Daul.

(Translation from the original French)

For further information:
Joseph Daul MEP, Tel: +32-2-2847525
Antoine Ripoll, Chairman's Spokesman, Tel: +32-475-856290

Notes to Editors:
The EPP-ED Group is the largest political group in the European Parliament with 288 Members from all 27 Member States.