Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister and his colleagues, and compliment them on the work they are doing in various areas, including Northern Ireland in particular. To what extent does the Minister envisage eastern partnership countries accessing the same market relationship with the European Union as, for example, Switzerland or Norway? Is it likely that the relationship will grow and, if so, to what extent?

In regard to the impasse that led to sanctions against Russia, to what extent have negotiations been renewed or are ongoing with a view to achieving better relations between the EU, Ukraine and Russia? Considerable economic and political benefits could accrue to all sides and it is in the interest of all parties to renew negotiations at the earliest opportunity.

I compliment the High Representative, Ms Mogherini, on her efforts to deal with a multiplicity of issues over the Christmas period. Is it expected that the principles of freedom, justice and openness - dare I mention perestroika - will prevail as a result of the motion we are currently considering? Is the European Union conscious of the need to build on the progress made not only with the countries mentioned here but also with the other countries in the region the Minister mentioned? In regard to security in the European Union and its neighbours, particularly in the eastern partnership and eastern neighbourhood, to what extent has the need for observation of good security practice been accepted by all concerned, especially given the current situation?

I have always believed it is necessary to have respect for each other in any negotiations where there may be clashes of culture, history, religion or whatever. The first condition should be to establish the necessity to respect each other's position. That means we must do so in every sense of the word. It may mean different things to different people, but it is absolutely necessary, if we are to achieve a better working relationship, the kind of security that is required globally, and between either side in any dispute, whether in Northern Ireland, eastern Europe or across Europe, or between Christian and Muslim countries or whatever, that we start from the basis of trying to ensure we respect each other's position. The Minister knows I have raised that through parliamentary questions. It is fundamental to where we are going.