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Proposals
for closer NATO-Russia relations
Defining a new level of partnership with Russia and exploring
ways of developing this relationship was the purpose of NATO
Secretary General Lord Robertson's visit to Russia, 21-23 November.
During his meetings with President Putin and top government
officials, the need for a frank discussion to determine additional
areas of cooperation and establish a mechanism to develop a
potentially reinforced relationship was raised. The 11 September
terrorist attacks were the catalyst for this review of NATO-Russia
relations. An increased level of cooperation is now being considered
to counter new security challenges that have emerged in addition
to terrorism, such as organised crime, proliferation and peacekeeping.
Further discussions will take place to establish the form and
extent of this new relationship, which aims for a greater exchange
of information on a greater number issues of common interest.
Russia has openly stated that it does not want to become a NATO
member, but reiterated its desire to further develop relations
with the Alliance, in line with the NATO-Russia Founding Act
signed in 1997, excluding any right of veto over NATO decisions.
Additional
information:
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