Russia: French MP Mariani happy in Crimea, despite reaction at home

The French delegation is happy to be in Crimea despite the fact that the visit created a big fuss back in their home country, said French National Assembly Deputy Thierry Mariani in Simferopol, Thursday, adding "we are free people." Speaking at a meeting of French and Russian lawmakers, Mariani commented on Ukraine's reaction to the journey stating that "sanctions are a sign of weakness." The French MP also downplayed all warnings concerning the visit from back in France, asking "What are you afraid of?" Concluding his statement, Mariani said the Committee on Foreign Affairs had no right to approve or disapprove a referendum. The French parliamentarians are currently on a two-day visit to Crimea and are the first western delegation to visit Crimea since Russia's reunification with Crimea in March 2014. However, Mariani has emphasised that the move is "personally motivated" rather than a reflection of France's position towards Russia. Prior to the trip, the French Foreign Ministry expressed its disapproval of the visit by Deputy Mariani, who is the co-chairman of the association of Franco-Russian dialogue.