Slovakia is a principal supporter of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, reads a statement published by the Slovak Foreign Affairs Ministry to mark the seventh anniversary of the annexation of Crimea. "The annexation of the Crimean Autonomous Region and the city of Sevastopol by the Russian Federation was a violation of international law," stated the Slovak ministry. Slovakia points to continuing restrictions on the fundamental rights and freedoms of inhabitants of Crimea who disagree with measures taken by the local administration. At the same time, it calls for the release of political prisoners and an end to the persecution of Crimean Tartars and representatives of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. "The Slovak Republic reiterates its call to allow observers of international organisations access to the peninsula. "In cooperation with other countries and international organisations, Slovakia will continue to participate in efforts to restore the territorial integrity of Ukraine in line with international law," stated the Slovak ministry.
Source: TASR
