Head of European diplomacy Josep Borrel called on European countries to show more “generosity” in a visa policy aimed at citizens of Russia. It is reported by RIA Novosti with reference to the report of the diplomat.
“When we talk about contacts between people, we must strengthen such opportunities … It is necessary to maintain the mobility of both European and Russian youth. In particular, this can be facilitated by issuing visas to the European Union, providing for funding under the Erasmus program (Erasmus) , training opportunities. Receive work. We are not working hard in this direction, “Borrel said. He added that European countries should be more “generous” in the issuance of educational visas so that people can see how Europe lives.
Earlier on the same day, the other statement of Borrel was reported. He stated that Europe does not see hope for improving relations with Russia.
On June 15, Borrel determined three actions for Europe relations with Russia: repel, restrain and interact. The diplomat mentioned that the approach proposed by them repeats the concept of NATO, which is practiced since 2014 and is aimed at simultaneous interaction and deterrence.
In response, the representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia Maria Zakharov said that such statements are based on phobias. She also criticized US and EU representatives for “problems with the knowledge of history and the perception of reality.”
In addition, the EU and the United States at the end of the summit on June 15 decided to create a high-level dialogue regarding Russia’s policy to “answer its negative behavior and harmful acts.”