NATO-Russia Council defence ministers meet

During the meeting of the NATO-Russia Council (NRC), ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the further development of practical cooperation. In this context, they welcomed Russia's plans to contribute a ship to the NATO's maritime counter-terrorist operation in the Mediterranean. Expected in August/September 2008, this will be the third Russian deployment in support of Operation Active Endeavour.

Acknowledging that practical cooperation has not yet reached its full potential under the NRC, ministers noted progress in the areas of theatre missile defence and airspace management, and continuing efforts towards developing logistical interoperability. They renewed their commitment to completing a framework agreement which could make Russia's strategic airlift capability available for future joint efforts. They also welcomed Russia's successful participation in NATO's submarine search-and-rescue Exercise Bold Monarch, which included the demonstrated capability of a Russian submersible rescue vehicle to connect to Allied nation submarines.

With a view to increasing the potential for operational cooperation, ministers endorsed the NRC Long-Term Vision for Defence and Military Cooperation. It provides a guidance framework for a 10-to-15-year period and will support the development of a capacity for effective joint action, given a political decision.

Ministers also discussed a range of current international security issues, including Afghanistan, the Conventional Forces in Europe (CFE) treaty, missile defence, and the situation in the Western Balkans. While differences remain on some issues, ministers reaffirmed the NRC's value as a forum for a constructive exchange of views.

On Afghanistan, ministers expressed their common interest in the establishment of peace and stability in the country. They welcomed the arrangements agreed at the Bucharest Summit for the land transit through Russia of non-military supplies for the NATO-led force in Afghanistan and the NRC's decision to continue cooperating in providing counter-narcotics training to Afghan and Central Asian personnel.

Ministers reiterated their commitment to pursue increased practical cooperation even as common ground is sought on complex political issues.