Paris does not recognize the election of the Russian president in the Crimea annexed to it, reports NV referring to the press service of the French Foreign Ministry.

"Four years after the recent illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, as well as Sevastopol, France most firmly reaffirms its commitment to the complete restoration of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Crimea within the internationally recognized borders," the message says..

Diplomats note that France "does not recognize the holding of presidential elections in Russia" in the territory of Crimea.

"France is concerned about the militarization of the peninsula and the deterioration of the human rights situation, especially affecting the Crimean Tatars. It condemns discrimination on the basis of belonging to an ethnic or religious community and calls for the release of all persons detained in violation of international law. France also calls for the preservation and protection of the historical and cultural heritage of the Crimea, "the statement said..