Sanctions against Russia repeatedly become one of the main topics on the agenda in Europe. Earlier, the European nations generally insisted on extension of sanctions, whereas now many of them have changed their attitude. The board of the French-Russian Dialogue Association is among those who say that sanctions must be lifted soon. Members of the association call for the lifting of sanctions imposed on Russia. The idea was voiced by former president of the Russian Railways Company Vladimir Yakunin and member of the French National Assembly from the Republicans party Thierry Mariani. Their claim is quite reasonable. It is not necessary to be an economic expert to see that Western sanctions have had a boomerang effect on European economies.
In case France decides to take up this stance, it will be able to play a decisive role in the lifting of sanctions. Policymakers in Paris try to do everything to reach a compromise with Russia and overcome the crisis. France suffered more than other European countries after the Russian government imposed reciprocal measures. Cancellation of Mistral orders came at a high price for France. The producer of helicopter carriers incurred severe losses and a deal for the sale of Mistrals to Egypt has only partially offset the money lost. Besides, French farmers are badly affected by the Russian embargo on imports of their products. There is nothing left but hope that the initiative of the French-Russian Dialogue Association will win support in Europe.
