The EU and Russia: From principle to pragmatism?

Disappointment and discord seem to have become the main ingredients of EU-Russia relations. But although bilateral relations may not evolve on the basis of ‘shared values’, as the EU once hoped, the two sides have enough common interests to build a constructive partnership.

Based on these interests, the EU and Russia have started to build ‘common spaces’ in economics, security, foreign policy and research. By focusing on day-to-day co-operation, the EU and Russia may be able to foster mutual trust and understanding.

The EU and Russia should give this pragmatic approach more time to work. They should go
slow on negotiating a comprehensive new treaty to replace the partnership and co-operation
agreement that expires in 2007.