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The decision to enlarge NATO and the European Union towards new countries, should not lead to an escalation of tensions with Russia, MP Christiana Erotokritou noted in a speech at a session of the Political Affairs and Democracy Committee of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe on the issue of recent security challenges in Europe.
Referring to Europe's energy independence from the Russian market, she stressed that the development and exploitation of the natural wealth of the Eastern Mediterranean by reliable partners is more relevant than ever.
According to a statement from the House of Representatives, the Cypriot MP, after noting that the biggest challenge today is Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, added that the war and its consequences will significantly alter in geopolitical terms the security in Europe and the balance of power beyond.
He went on to say that the first priority was to support and relieve the Ukrainian people who were experiencing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis. He said that the displacement of millions of people and the exposure of the most vulnerable among them to all kinds of risks and abuses call for immediate, drastic and collective solutions. In addition, he stressed that neighbouring host countries should receive real support in terms of resources and infrastructure in order to make the hosting and stay of Ukrainian citizens in their countries smoother.
After stating that Europe's energy independence from the Russian market and the access and supply of energy sources from other geographical regions is another important aspect that should be taken into account by the European Union , he stressed that Europe's dependence on Russia should not be replaced by another authoritarian regime. She added that the development and exploitation of the natural wealth of the Eastern Mediterranean by reliable partners is more relevant than ever.
Erotokritou pointed out that the decision to enlarge NATO and the European Union towards new countries should not lead to an escalation of tensions with Russia. She stressed that a nuclear conflict, which would have dire consequences, should be avoided, noting that the continued militarization of Ukraine could perpetuate the war. He added that it is necessary to keep the channels of communication between the sides open in order to support dialogue and ongoing peace efforts.
Source: CNA
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