PARIS, Nov. 8 (Xinhua) -- Europe will be represented at the upcoming U.S.-led talks aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict, scheduled for next week in Abu Dhabi, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Sunday.
"The Europeans will be represented, and France will be in Abu Dhabi to participate in these talks," Barrot said during Le Grand jury, a RTL news program.
"France will be there, and it will make the voice of Europe heard," the minister said, without specifying who will represent France on this occasion.
The French foreign minister acknowledged that "there have been discussions at times without the Europeans," but they "have made it clear to the American mediators that no discussion concerning the future of this continent can ignore our expectations and demands."
"In any case, we will not let anyone speak on our behalf, that is very clear," Borrot said.
These remarks by the French foreign minister came ahead of U.S.-mediated talks involving Russian and Ukrainian representatives set for Nov. 10-11 in Abu Dhabi.
Despite renewed diplomatic efforts, Russia and Ukraine remain divided over key issues, including territory and security guarantees, while fighting continues with air and drone strikes by both sides. ■