GOTEBORG, Sweden - European Union leaders expressed concern on Saturday about threats to the freedom of the Russian media and about the conflict in Chechnya, in a draft statement at the EU summit.

"The situation in Chechnya gives rise to serious concern. A political solution to the conflict is urgently needed. Reported violations of human rights should be thoroughly investigated in order to bring perpetrators to trial," it said.

The draft document noted that Russia had promised to cooperate with the EU in delivering humanitarian aid to the region. It said the 15-nation bloc would continue to monitor Russian media freedom.

"A strong civil society is necessary in a modern democratic society. Freedom of speech and pluralism in the media are essential democratic principles and core values for a genuine EU-Russia partnership," it said.

Despite concerns over media freedom and Chechnya, the EU statement said the bloc was forging a strong dialogue with President Vladimir Putin's administration on a range of issues including energy, aviation and crime fighting. The EU is Russia's biggest trade partner. The two hold regular summits. ....

Reuters