Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov to Navigate OSCE Crisis Talks in Skopje

Moscow, (Nasir abbas ): Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is set to participate in the 30th regular meeting of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Ministerial Council, scheduled to take place in Skopje, North Macedonia, on November 30 and December 1. The OSCE Ministerial Council, serving as the second top governing body of the organization, convenes in non-summit years to discuss the implementation of decisions and coordinate mid-term goals. This year's meeting, hosted by the Republic of North Macedonia, will primarily focus on addressing the crisis situation within the OSCE. Minister Lavrov's agenda includes engaging in discussions on outstanding issues and addressing administrative and personnel matters crucial for the organization's normal functioning in the upcoming year. Notably, decisions within the OSCE are reached based on consensus among member states. The current crisis within the OSCE has been attributed to actions by certain Western countries, utilizing the organization for their interests and violating its fundamental principles. Russia aims to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve issues and restore the organization's focus on its core responsibilities. The Russian delegation consistently emphasizes critical matters within the OSCE's purview, such as combating terrorism, safeguarding traditional values, countering neo-Nazism, and addressing concerns like Christianophobia and Islamophobia. Furthermore, the delegation updates member states on the progress of the special military operation and provides objective information regarding various issues, including war crimes and attacks on cultural and linguistic elements in Ukraine. The OSCE, founded on the principles of equal and indivisible security, has faced challenges in recent years, with issues arising in the implementation of key agreements. Minister Lavrov, during the Skopje meeting, will address concerns related to the OSCE's politico-military, economic and environmental, and humanitarian dimensions. Bilateral talks are planned on the sidelines of the OSCE Ministerial Council Meeting, where the head of the Russian delegation will engage with representatives from OSCE member states and senior officials. These discussions aim to foster diplomatic ties and address mutual concerns, contributing to the organization's efforts in overcoming its current challenges.