"We will do all we can to push ahead with de-escalation," underscored Angela Merkel. Everybody wants to see free and fair presidential elections in Ukraine. But, if the elections do not take place, "we are also willing to progress along the path of sanctions". The Chancellor described the referendum planned for Sunday in eastern Ukraine as unlawful.

Angela Merkel and President François Hollande agreed that if the presidential elections fail, consequences must follow, as agreed by the European Council at its meeting on 6 March, with the three-stage sanctions procedure.

On the outcome of the extraordinary EU meeting on 6 March

Sanctions cannot, however, be an end in themselves, the Chancellor pointed out. Germany and France continue to put their faith in a diplomatic and peaceful solution to the crisis in Ukraine. "The Russian President must send stronger signals to de-escalate the situation," stated Angela Merkel, to ensure that the message is received in the east and south of Ukraine.

Major role for OSCE

In a joint declaration, Germany and France called for OSCE election observers to be seconded to ensure that free and internationally recognised presidential elections can be held in Ukraine.

The two countries also called for non-violence and an end to intimidation. To de-escalate the situation, illegal weapons should be handed in by 15 May under the supervision of the OSCE. The Russian troops along the Ukrainian border too should take "tangible steps" to reduce their alert levels.

For a national dialogue in Ukraine

At the same time Angela Merkel underlined the importance of a national dialogue. "We believe that this national dialogue should begin rapidly in the weeks to come and that the OSCE should again play a major part," she said. Germany has already proposed this, in the form of a round table.

Representatives of the Ukrainian government and representatives of all Ukrainian regions should look at all relevant issues, says the Franco-German statement. These include the constitutional form of Ukraine and decentralisation. The Ukrainian government is also to announce its plans for continued constitutional reform within the next few days.

With a view to economic cooperation, Germany and France urged that all actions should be renounced that are likely to damage the Ukrainian economy, especially in terms of energy supply.

Decades of friendship

The French President’s visit continues the tradition of close Franco-German friendship. France is Germany’s closest and most important partner in Europe. It does not have such regular and intensive consultations across the board with any other country.

Angela Merkel visited François Hollande in Paris in February this year within the framework of Franco-German government consultations. In 2013 the two countries had much to celebrate: the fiftieth anniversary of the Elysée Treaty, which sealed the post-war friendship between France and Germany