ECR statement on MH17 crash

Following to the tragic downing of Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpar the ECR responded.

Following to the tragic downing of Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpar, European Conservatives and Reformists Group chairman Syed Kamall, Dutch delegation leader Peter van Dalen, the Chairman of the European Parliament Security and Defence committee Anna Fotyga, and ECR foreign affairs spokesman Charles Tannock have issued the following statement:

“This is a terrible tragedy and we send our thoughts and heartfelt condolences to all of the families and friends of the passengers and crew.

“The facts of this tragedy must be established swiftly by a fully reliable independent investigation, making use of the European Aviation Safety Agency.

“It seems increasingly likely that this was a criminal act. Whoever was responsible, and those assisting them, must understand that the West will not allow civilian aircraft to be attacked without serious consequences. Facts must be established first, but consequences must follow from this likely act of aggression against Europe and her allies.

“The UN Security Council must convene immediately and EU governments should meet to discuss a response in the coming days. The ECR continues to reiterate Ukraine’s right to defend her territorial integrity.”