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Russia takes note of Serbia’s words about Western blackmail over UN vote — diplomat

We are certainly taking note of the Serbian politicians’ statements about the pressure being exerted on them, Maria Zakharova said

MOSCOW, April 13. /TASS/. Moscow takes note of the statements made by Serbian politicians that Belgrade was pressured into voting to suspend Russia from the UN Human Rights Council, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said at a briefing on Wednesday.

"We are certainly taking note of the Serbian politicians’ statements about the pressure being exerted on them," she said when asked to comment on Serbia’s decision to vote on Russia’s suspension from the UN Human Rights Council.

According to Zakharova, Russia proceeds from the fact that its traditional partners within international organizations will consistently adhere to positions that reflect their genuine national interests and a true friendly attitude.

"We realize that pressure is being exerted, but if we talk about those who declare themselves our friends, it is definitely impossible to comprehend this," the diplomat said.

On April 7, during a special session UN General Assembly passed the Western-drafted resolution on Russia’s suspension from the Human Rights Council. A total of 93 votes were cast in favor of the resolution, with 24 against, while 58 delegations abstained from the vote.

In order for the resolution to be passed, two thirds of votes are needed, and votes of those who abstained are not taken into account, which makes the total number of counted votes 117; 93 is more than two thirds of that number, which made it possible for the resolution to pass.

After the UN vote, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said that his country supported Russia’s suspension from the UN Human Rights Council due to the West’s pressure and blackmail.

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