|
The Russian Federation
During 2001 relations between the European Union and Russia intensified considerably
over a wide range of issues. On 23 March, Russian President Putin met all the EU heads
of state and government in Stockholm for the first time when he was guest of the Swedish
presidency. This was an expression of the importance the Union places on its relations
with the Russian Federation. The European Council in Stockholm in June empowered the
European Investment Bank to grant loans for specific environmental projects in Russia,
and gave a signal for the start of dialogues on justice and home affairs, finance, and the
question of the Kaliningrad enclave, which will be surrounded by EU partners after Poland
and Lithuania join the Union.
It is just because the EU regards its strategic partnership with Russia as having a special
significance, as well as a role in Europe and beyond, that it is following events in Russia
with particular attention, whether these be in connection with the plurality and
independence of the media, freedom of opinion, protection of the environment, or human
rights in military conflict situations like in Chechnya. In doing so, the Union starts from the
premise that the Russian Federation also recognises the basic democratic principles and
values as essential for a genuine and wide-raging partnership.
A previously adopted EU Joint Action on a programme of cooperation on non-proliferation
and disarmament in Russia continued in 2001. It foresees assistance with guaranteeing
nuclear safety and destroying chemical weapons. The EU also recognises the
fundamental progress that has been made during the past ten years in the rule of law,
public institutions and the civil society, but at the same time has no hesitation in pointing
out the serious deficiencies that remain, especially as regards the implementation of
legislation, court procedures, and the independence of the media.
One result of the seventh EU-Russia Summit in Moscow on 17 May was the idea of
setting up a high-ranking group to discuss pending trade-related questions with a view to
the long-term realisation of a common European economic and social area. The eighth
EU-Russia Summit in Brussels on 3 October was held under the shadow of the terrorist
attacks on 11 September. In addition to a comprehensive joint declaration on combating
international terrorism (including practical cooperation to that end), both sides expressed
their will to increase political and security cooperation, the swift drafting of the concept of
a common European economic area, preparations for a partnership on energy, and
Russian membership of the World Trade Organisation. Russia is an indispensable partner
for the anti-terror coalition.
The European Union is convinced that long-term security in Europe demands a stable
and prosperous Russia (where a common European security area is already being
spoken of as a desirable goal). The best possible form of cooperation with Russia will be
an essential element in the creation of a secure and stable Europe.
Austria has advanced this point of view and strategic objective as a central theme of
discussions in numerous high-level bilateral contacts with Russian representatives.
President Putin and Prime Minister Kasyanov both visited Austria during the year,
Austrian Federal president Klestil paid an official visit to Russia in June. The subjects of
discussion ranged from international issues to bilateral economic relations and the
possibility of their further development.
|
