OSCE reps to discuss Crimea with Russian lawmakers
MOSCOW. March 31 (Interfax) - Russian lawmakers think experts from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe will only be able to monitor the Ukrainian presidential elections in Crimea after the OSCE recognizes Crimea as Russia's constituent territory.
President of the OSCE's Parliamentary Assembly Ranko Krivokapic told reporters in Moscow on Monday that the OSCE delegation plans to meet with State Duma Speaker Sergei Naryshkin to discuss organizational aspects of the Ukrainian presidential elections. The OSCE mission will hopefully gain access to both sides of the border, he also said.
This issue will be discussed in talks with Naryshkin later on Monday, leader of the Russian permanent delegation to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, State Duma Deputy Nikolai Kovlayov confirmed.
"If elections are to be held in Ukraine, polling stations must be opened in Crimea and in the rest of Russia in accordance with international law, to allow those who want to participate to cast their ballots," he said.
"But if this is to be done, Crimea must be recognized as Russia's constituent territory," Kovalyov said.
"We will honor all of our obligations in accordance with international agreements. The ball is in Ukraine's court now," he said.