Sweden will continue efforts to resolve Donbas conflict - Linde

19.01.2021 15:20

Ukrinform

Sweden will continue its efforts to resolve the conflict in Donbas and support a political solution to the situation during its OSCE chairmanship, according to OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden Ann Linde.

She said this at a joint briefing with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba in Kyiv on Tuesday, January 19, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"The Swedish Chairpersonship will continue to build on the efforts of the previous chairs to work towards a peaceful conflict resolution. One of our priorities […] is to defend the European security order. We support a sustainable political solution in line with OSCE principles and commitments, with full respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders, including the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol," she said.

In addition, Linde noted a significant reduction in ceasefire violations since July 27 last year.

"This has made the everyday lives of people in affected areas safer," she said.

Linde also expressed regret that one Ukrainian serviceman died in the area of the Joint Forces Operation in Donbas last week and extended her condolences to his family.

Linde also noted that the improved security situation should provide the basis for further steps, such as the exchange of detainees, the opening of new entry-exit checkpoints, demining, and disengagement areas, in line with the Common Agreed Conclusions of the Paris Normandy Summit.