The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, Chrystia Freeland, stated that Russia’s return to G7 (“Big Seven”) is possible only under conditions of de-occupation of Crimea and bringing to end the war in Donbas. She made this statement during press conference with the US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, reported Reuters.
Freeland noted that Canada’s position regarding Russia’s participation in G7 is “very clear”.
“Russia’s violation of international law by invading Crimea and its annexation, as well as support of the war in Donbas is something we cannot allow”, said Freeland.
She asserted that if Moscow wants to join the international delegation, it has to stop the war on Donbas and leave Crimea.
“If these conditions are fulfilled, I think we will all be happy to welcome Russia that commits to the values of our like-minded group”, added Freeland.
Previously, American TV channel CNN referring to the anonymous source in the US Presidential administration reported that during the phone call, US President, Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron agreed to invite Russia for the next G7 Summit in 2020. Later, the French president stated that Russia’s return to G7 without resolving the situation in Ukraine would be a “strategic mistake” and would demonstrate “weakness” of organization.