Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s opening remarks during talks with Secretary General of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe Feridun Sinirlioglu, Moscow, March 11, 2025

Mr Secretary General,

Colleagues,

We are pleased to welcome you to Moscow.

Thank you for accepting our invitation to visit our capital as Secretary General of the OSCE. You assumed leadership of the Secretariat during challenging times. As the Organisation approaches the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, it must be acknowledged — let us be frank — that it finds itself mired in a profound crisis, precipitated by NATO and EU member states. The foundational objectives and consensus-driven principles underpinning the OSCE’s establishment are now being blatantly violated and disregarded.

We rely on your experience and wisdom. Your distinguished record of service within the United Nations and other critical roles, including on Afghanistan, is well known.

We are confident that you will make every effort to steer the OSCE back to its roots – to the principles solemnly enshrined in numerous summits and declarations – principles that Europe sorely needs today.

Russia has repeatedly articulated its vision for the OSCE’s evolution, and we remain committed to advancing this cause.