#10
International Herald Tribune
December 6, 2001
Here Is the Chance to Integrate Russia
By Frederick Bonnart
The writer is editorial director of NATO's Nations, an independent military journal. He contributed this comment to the International Herald Tribune.
BRUSSELS The attempt to integrate Russia into a common European house and thereby establish a firm base for European security has not had an easy ride. But in the warmer climate emerging since Sept. 11 a unique opportunity exists to cross a historic threshold.
The present arrangement for NATO-Russia relations was determined by a Founding Act signed by both parties in 1997, which created a permanent joint council. Foreign and defense ministers meet in it twice a year, and it holds regular monthly meetings at ambassador level. Russia considers it highly unsatisfactory.
Previously agreed-upon NATO positions are discussed but not opened for decisions by Russia, which feels that it is given the appearance but not the reality of joint power. The joint council is aptly referred to as the 19+1.
Tony Blair, the British prime minister, recently proposed a new council, to be known as the Russia-North Atlantic Council, in which all 20 representatives would examine problems in common and have equal decision powers. Both sides have interests that such cooperation would serve. Further NATO enlargement, possibly adding seven more members including the three Baltic countries, will be decided at the Prague summit next year. President Vladimir Putin wishes to forge ahead with Russia's modernization.
NATO's strict limits are understood by all. NATO is an alliance of sovereign nations which can make only decisions to which all members agree. Russia is not a member and will not become one in the foreseeable future.
But Russian officials point to repeated NATO declarations of changed purpose, which make prevention of instability, peacekeeping and crisis management the main priorities. These are subjects specifically listed in the Founding Act as appropriate for joint decision and joint action. So is the fight against terrorism.
Next Article