NATO HQ 8 Dec . 2005

Opening of the photo exhibition “NATO-Russia: Strategic Partners” Statement by The Secretary General Multimedia (.PDF/161Kb) Ladies and Gentlemen, Dear Sergei, It is a pleasure to escape for a few moments from the world of words – important as they are – to visit the world of images. The exhibition that I have the honour to inaugurate with my friend Sergei illustrates the unfolding story of the partnership between NATO nations and Russia. It was put together by the NATO Public Diplomacy Division, the Russian Delegation to NATO and RIA-Novosti press agency – all of whom I would like to thank for their excellent work. This exhibition is a snapshot of the big and small events that are part of our developing co-operation. You will see here photos of politicians, diplomats, soldiers and scientists. Through those pictures you can trace the genesis and the living history of the NATO-Russia Council. You will find that, apart from high-level political consultations and agreements, the life of the NRC is shaped day-by-day, including by representatives of the younger generation. These pictures also show, more clearly than any joint declaration or communiqué, how quickly former adversaries can become friends and partners. It is easy to forget how far we’ve come in a short time. We should not forget, because it is an historic success, and an essential security bridge across Europe. Let me also mention another illustration of this new spirit: a book containing a collection of presentations on the topic of “Psychological responses to the new terrorism: A NATO-Russia dialogue”. Published as part of the NATO Security through Science series, it looks into a serious element of the consequences of terrorism. I would like to invite you to study this photo exhibition and to read the book. But first, let me give the floor to Minister Lavrov.