Russia rejects PACE decision to cancel Moscow’s voting rights

Friday, April 11, 2014 | 18:04:59

(VOVworld) - Russia’s delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) boycotted the PACE session Thursday in reaction to a decision to cancel Russia’s voting and observing rights because of its annexation of Crimea. Alexei Pushkov, the head of the Russian delegation, said Russian membership in PACE no longer makes sense and the delegation will boycott the spring meeting of PACE while reserving its right to reconsider its PACE membership.

Russia rejects PACE decision to cancel Moscow’s voting rights - ảnh 1

PACE Building in Strasbourg, France. Photo: internet

At a meeting in Strasbourg, France, PACE approved a resolution to suspend Russia’s voting rights and exclude Russia from leadership positions until the end of the year, with 145 votes in favor, 21 against, and 22 abstains. Before the meeting, the Russian delegation refused to take part in the debate.

Pushkov said PACE’s decision is a gross violation of Russia’s rights, adding that Russia will issue a statement in the next 3 weeks and inform PACE about it.