HOW THE EU SHOULD APPROACH RUSSIA

In my opinion, relations between the EU and Russia need to be handled consultatively, with restraint and sensitivity. The EU must recognize that change in Russia will come from within, and over a long period. To the extent possible, the EU should continue to support processes of enlightenment in Russia – but should not gear policy to unrealistic expectations of the pace of change. It is futile to fulminate that Russia does not meet the benchmarks of Western democracy. The West will have no credibility in Russia unless it practices what it preaches.

The most important form of engagement is the mutually advantageous two-way interaction of business. The further development of the market economy will be the most powerful driver of the modernization of society and governance in Russia.

Last, but by no means least, I believe that the European Union needs to articulate a clear and principled long-term view of its relationship with Russia and make it clear that it :

– recognizes that a strong, stable, prosperous and modern Russia will make a very large contribution to the well-being of the European continent; and seeks to cooperate with Russia to the greatest extent possible.
– fully acknowledges Russia’s right to defend its own interests and pursue its own independent policies within the parameters of international law and of the sovereign rights of other states.
– has an equal interest in the sovereignty, stability and development of the Russian Federation and of all of the other states of the former Soviet Union, and in harmonious relations between them.
– is not seeking to expand its influence at the expense of Russia.

Clearly both sides need to rebuild trust, step by step, by cooperating where they share interests. That will require levels of statesmanship and sobriety in rhetoric and behavior which have recently been conspicuous by their absence; and a realistic perspective on the situation we are in and the problems we face.