NATO and Russia

The NATO-Russia cooperation was initiated in 1997. It was institutionalised in May 2002, through the establishment of the NATO-Russia Council (NRC). Its purpose is to strengthen relations between NATO and Russia through political dialogue and practical cooperation. The 26 NATO countries and Russia are equal partners in the NRC. 

Meetings at political level and between military officials take place regularly. This shows that the vision of using the NRC as an instrument for integrating Russia in issues of common interest within the broad Euro-Atlantic security cooperation is alive. The NRC is developing a significant operative aspect.   

There is broad agreement within NATO that cooperation with Russia is in the Alliance’s long-term interest. The strategic importance of the partnership was emphasised at the Riga Summit in November 2006. In the Summit Declaration, the Heads of State and Government expressed their interest in strengthening political and practical cooperation with Russia. 

The Government attaches great importance to contributing actively to the development of the NATO-Russia cooperation. Norway will seek to ensure that the meeting of Foreign Ministers in Oslo and this year’s planned anniversary events in Russia further the intentions of the Riga Summit and contribute to a real strengthening and development of the cooperation. The Government sees the NRC as an important arena for political dialogue on key issues of common interest. Norway’s priorities for practical cooperation in 2007 include oil spill response, the counter-narcotics training of Central Asian and Afghan Law Enforcement personnel  and environmental cooperation in the Arctic. 

Further information can be found on NATO’s website.