Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not have a question but I thank the Minister for his good outline of this motion and record my complete support for this kind of agreement. I recognise the amount of work that goes into producing an agreement such as this one that crosses 28 policy sectors. It cannot but be mutually beneficial both at an economic and a political level. As the Minister said, it will enhance our shared values of democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights. I recognise that these countries have a geography and a history which are different from ours. I welcome that Russia has recognised the fact, as do we, that these countries do not have to turn their back on their past simply by joining an association agreement with the European Union. That is important and I welcome the fact that the trade agreements can continue with Russia, but nevertheless that should not blind us to the fact that it is beneficial for us in the EU and for these countries to have an agreement like this, and it is to be welcomed and endorsed by the committee.