The EU and Russia
begin as soon as possible negotiations on a strategic partnership, Russian
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced in Moscow after having
met with his French counterpart Bernard Kouchner.
Russia is ready for these negotiations and is expecting in Brussels to give a
mandate to its representatives for their beginning, said Lavrov, cited by BNR.
From 1 July France will take over the presidency of the EU and according to
Bernard Kouchner, the main priorities in relation to Russia will be the general
European policy on defence and security, partnership in the energy field and
creation of conditions to facilitate travel.
The French minister commented on the
explosive situation in Caucasus region. "An enforced solution is not possible nor in Abkhazia,
or in Georgia. Abkhazia is part of Georgia
and we must seek all opportunities to peacefully resolve the conflict,"
said Bernard Kouchner. "To achieve this goal the EU offers ongoing
dialogue on matters of defence and security in the region," said French
foreign minister.
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