LOC16:56
13:56 GMT
PARIS, April 18 (KUNA) -- The Parliamentary Assembly of the European Council (PACE) on Friday said it welcomed the agreement reached on Ukraine in quadripartite talks in Geneva Thursday, saying it is a "positive step" that gives hope for an easing of tensions in the region.
The talks between the United States, Russia, the European Union and Ukraine set out a framework for a de-escalation of tensions and disarmament of militias and a return of occupied buildings to government hands.
"The agreement reached with the responsible attitude shown by negotiators is a positive step after the recent deterioration of the situation and gives hope for a lull in the rising tensions in the coming days," said Anne Brasseur, President of PACE.
She called for supporting the Ukrainian authorities in the implementation of the Geneva accord, notably "the disarmament of illegal armed groups...the evacuation of occupied buildings and the end of violent or provocative actions by all participants."
As early as April 9, the Council of Europe body had passed a resolution expressing "deep concern" about developments in Eastern Ukraine and the risk of destabilisation of the region if there was "Russian military aggression against Ukraine".
The Council recommended that "tangible security agreements to ensure Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity" be explored.
The European Council has 47 member countries, including Russia, and is charged with monitoring democracy and human rights in its members. (end)
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