1. RUSSIAN – EU RELATIONS “I count on Russia’s contribution to world peace and understanding. I look forward to continuing our cooperation and building an even stronger relationship between Russia and the European Union.” President of European Commission Romano Prodi, March 2004 “Together we will overcome the challenges and threats [facing us] and make our continent secure.” President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, May 2003

2. Overview of relations Overview of relations

3. The Partnership and Cooperation Agreement: Foundation of EU-Russia Cooperation The PCA was signed in June 1994 in Corfu by the Heads of State or Government of the Member States of the EU, the President of the European Commission and the President of the Russian Federation. It entered into force on 1 December 1997 and has an initial duration of 10 years but will continue in force automatically unless either side issues notice to the contrary.

4. Key Documents and Agreements  Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA, 1997)  EU Common Strategy on Russia (1999)  Russia’s Middle Term Strategy towards the EU (2000-2010)  EU Country Strategy Paper on Russia (2002-2006)  EU Presidency Work programe  Communication on EU-Russia relations (2004)  Sectoral Agreements

5. PARTNERSHIP Covers a wide area of cooperation creates a spirit of equality and partnership aimed at strengthening political, commercial, economic and cultural ties based on core principles shared by the parties ranging from the promotion of international peace and security to support for a democratic society based on political and economic freedoms

6. COOPERATION Covers a wide area of cooperation Establishes an institutional framework for a dialogue between the European Union and Russia

7. INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK  At Ministerial level in the annual Cooperation Council. At the St Petersburg Summit of May 2003, it was decided to strengthen the Cooperation Council by transforming it into a Permanent Partnership Council.  Between Parliamentary Representatives in the European Parliament-State Duma Parliamentary Cooperation Committee.  Political dialogue takes place in the Political Directors Troika Meetings

8. Building a Europe without dividing lines: the four Common Spaces  A Common Economic Space aimed at the creation of an open and integrated market between the EU and Russia.  A Common Space of Freedom, Security and Justice envisaging enhanced cooperation in the field of Justice and Home Affairs, based on the common values of respect for the rule of law and human rights.  A Common Space of External Security aiming to strengthen and further develop EU-Russia dialogue and cooperation in conflict prevention, crisis management and post-conflict rehabilitation in Europe and beyond.  A Common Space of Research and Education, including Cultural Aspects with the aim to intensify links and exchanges in the fields of research, education and culture to promote mutual understanding and stimulate economic growth.

9. Areas of cooperation Cross-Border Cooperation Culture Democracy and Human Rights Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Economics and Trade Energy Environment Food Aid Higher Education Humanitarian Aid Industry Investment Justice and Home Affairs Northern Dimension Political Dialogue Science and Technology Security and Defence Space Transport

10. Cooperation Programms with Russia TACIS European Initiative for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) Humanitarian Aid (ECHO) Other Programms Youth LIFE