Russian MFA Information and Press Department Commentary Regarding a Question from Interfax News Agency Concerning Recent Remarks of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad

Unofficial translation from Russian

Question: How Moscow could comment on the Holocaust remarks of the Iranian President and his suggestion that Germany and Austria give a part of their territory for Israel to be moved there?

Commentary: It is hard to comment on such unacceptable statements. There are well-known historical facts associated with World War II, including those with the Holocaust. These facts are not subject to revision, and everybody has to understand it. That's the understanding which found, in particular, reflection in the recently adopted resolution of the General Assembly of the United Nations, cosponsored by Russia. It contains an appeal to all states to resist attempts to negate the Holocaust.

We think that there is no need for a reminder either that all UN members must observe the principles underlying international relations as set forth in its Charter, including the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. Russia, just as the international community as a whole, firmly stands for ensuring that Israel lives in peace and security side by side with an independent Palestinian side.

December 9, 2005