Ilves commends German, French leaders for Minsk agreements

Photo: SCANPIX

Estonian President Toomas Hendrik Ilves on Friday voiced appreciation of the efforts made by the leaders of Germany and France to reach an agreement at the Minsk negotiations, saying that what has been achieved is a fragile step toward restoring the order of peaceful coexistence.

«I commend the efforts and tenacity of the leaders of Germany and France in reaching a ceasefire agreement at the Minsk regotiations,» Ilves said according to spokespeople. «It is our duty to restore the order of peaceful coexistence in Europe that was upset last year. What was achieved in Minsk on February 12 is an important, albeit fragile step in that direction.»

Ilves said the agreement's actual value will be revealed in the course of its implementation. «Today the hope is still there however that the hostilities, which have claimed thousands of lives and forced thousands of people to leave their homes, will stop. I hope that the ceasefire in Ukraine will be implemented and will hold. The residents of Donetsk and Lugansk expect this, all of Europe expects this,» the Estonian head of state said.

Ilves said that with its aggression in Ukraine Russia has violated the fundamental principles of international law – inviolability of frontiers and prohibition on the use of force in interaction with other countries. «We continue to support Ukraine's aspirations to restore peace, ensure their country's independence, sovereignty and inviolability of territory,» he said.

The Estonian president said there can be no talk about easing the EU sanctions as long as there are no visible, tangible results – pullout of Russian weapons and military from Ukraine and restoration by Ukraine of control over its borders and territory.

«With their courage, bravery and determination the Ukrainian people are an example to everyone who values freedom, democracy and each country's right to decide itself about its policy and allies,» Ilves said.