Lavrov declared gross violation and disregard of OSCE principles

The principles and objectives of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) are grossly violated and ignored. This was announced on March 11 by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at talks with OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioglu.

"All the original goals of the organization's creation and the principles on which it is based, which were agreed upon by consensus, are now being grossly violated and ignored," Lavrov said.

He noted that Sinirlioglu headed the secretariat at a "difficult time." The Minister also noted that the OSCE is currently in a deep crisis due to the fault of the NATO member states and the European Union (EU).

The minister said that Moscow is counting on the experience and wisdom of the new Secretary General of the organization.

"We have no doubt that you will do everything possible to return the OSCE to its roots, to the very principles that were solemnly proclaimed at numerous summits, in declarations, and which Europe really, really needs now," the Russian Foreign Minister added.

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On March 10, the press service of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that during the talks, Lavrov would raise the issues of the safety of journalists and ways to increase the effectiveness of OSCE specialized agencies in this area. It was specified that Sinirlioglu's visit to Moscow would be two days.