§ Mr. Bill WigginTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on relations between NATO and Russia, with particular reference to security in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet bloc. [186771]
§ Mr. HoonFormal relations between NATO and Russia are conducted through the NATO-Russia Council (NRC). The Council facilitates engagement between the twenty-six member-stales of NATO and Russia on a number of key issues. It provides a forum where concerns can be aired and practical solutions to problems can be identified. There is an increasing broadening of political dialogue in the NRC to cover key security issues including Afghanistan, the Balkans and counter-terrorism. Our aim is for Russia to be a long-term strategic partner of NATO. Wider European security can only benefit as a result
As many countries of Eastern Europe are now members of NATO, their security—like that of other allies—is part of the normal business of the Alliance. NATO has encouraged Russia to make progress in negotiating with-Georgia and Moldova over her presence in the region; this was reflected in the communiqué following the Istanbul Summit (28–29 June 2004). NATO and Russia are working together on a range of security issues including: counter-proliferation; theatre missile defence; arms control and counter-narcotics. They are also conducting work towards joint operations such as Operation Active Endeavour (NATO's counter-terrorist naval mission in the Mediterranean).