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Lavrov emphasizes need to ensure special status of Donbass

According to the Russian top diplomat, progress on this track would create conditions for progress in other areas, including security, social, economic and humanitarian issues

MOSCOW, April 30. /TASS/. Moscow has reiterated that ensuring the special status of Donbass as part of Ukraine is crucial for resolving the conflict, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told reporters following a video conference of the top diplomats of the Normandy Four group (Russia, France, Germany and Ukraine).

"We pointed out that one of the key provisions of the Minsk Agreements concerns ensuring the special status of Donbass as part of Ukraine. This is the goal and basis of efforts to resolve the conflict," Lavrov said.

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According to the Russian top diplomat, progress on this track would create conditions for progress in other areas, including security, social, economic and humanitarian issues.

"Unfortunately, there is nothing to boast about. The Kiev authorities are reluctant to build direct dialogue with Donetsk and Lugansk, though the parties need to hold direct dialogue to agree on all legal aspects concerning permanent special status," Lavrov emphasized.

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Ukraine Sergey Lavrov

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