MP Christiana Erotokritou delivered a speech today at a session of the Political Affairs and Democracy Committee of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe on recent security challenges in Europe.
The biggest challenge today, the Cypriot MP said, is undoubtedly Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The war and its consequences, she stressed, will significantly alter security in Europe and the balance of power beyond in geopolitical terms.
The first priority, she said, is to support and relieve the Ukrainian people who are experiencing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis. The displacement of millions of people and the exposure of the most vulnerable among them to all kinds of risks and abuses, he pointed out, call for immediate, drastic and collective solutions. In addition, he stressed, the 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.
Europe's energy dependence on the Russian market and access to and supply of energy sources from other geographical regions is another important aspect that should be taken into account by the European Union. At the same time, he stressed, Europe's dependence on Russia should not be replaced by another authoritarian regime. Therefore, she said, the development and exploitation of the natural wealth of the Eastern Mediterranean by reliable partners becomes more relevant than ever before.
Finally, Ms 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 also stressed that a nuclear conflict should be avoided, which would have disastrous consequences, while the continued militarization of Ukraine could perpetuate the war. Therefore, he added, it is necessary to keep the channels of communication between the sides open in order to support dialogue and ongoing peace efforts.
(Text as sent by the House of Representatives)
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