ZAGREB, March 6, 2020 – Croatia could instigate the establishment of good relations between Russia and Europe during its presidency of the Council of the European Union, Russian Ambassador Anvar Azimov said in Rijeka on Friday.
In our opinion, Russia and Europe are the most natural friends in the world today. I would like it very much if your EU presidency marked the start of the establishment of good relations between Russia and Europe, he said.
Croatia has that possibility today and your wise Croatian government can make it happen and become the initiator of such relations, he added.
Azimov visited Rijeka for the unveiling of a bust of cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin near the Astronomy Centre. The Russian Embassy to Croatia and the City of Rijeka participated in the erection of the bust.
Azimov also commented on Thursday’s talks between presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey at which, he said, a very important decision was made as yet another important step towards establishing peace in Syria.
The two presidents agreed on ceasing all military operations and on a joint patrol of Russian and Turkish troops, Azimov said.
We are interested in reaching peace in Syria as soon as possible to stop the movement of migrants into Europe. Yesterday’s decision testifies to Russia’s influence and power, and Europe must appreciate Russia’s role. Instead of imposing sanctions on Russia, Europe must establish friendly relations with it, he added.
More news about relations between Croatia and Russia can be found in the Politics section.