THERE was general welcome for a motion to approve EU partnership and co operation agreements with the member states of the Russian Federation, formerly the Soviet Union.
Introducing the motion, the Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Spring, said good relations between the EU and a democratic Russia were clearly in the interests of both parties and essential to stability in Europe.
Irish exports to the Russian Federation were worth almost £140 million in 1994 compared with just £60 million in 1993. Beef exports alone were now worth £50 million, making Russia our largest non EU beef customer. Earnings from exports of services also proved satisfactory and consultancy contracts had been won by many Irish firms.
The agreements covered by the motion would assist in the creation of new relationships based on shared values and economic prosperity.
Mr Noel Davern (FF, Tipperary South) said Russia should get every assistance possible in dealing with its nuclear power plants which were a threat to the whole European environment.
Mr Michael McDowell (PD Dublin South East) said the best way of securing the future was to deepen trade links between the Russian Federation and the EU.
