Talks on new Russia-EU deal to go ahead - Medvedev

Moscow is ready to continue talks with the EU on a new strategic bilateral agreement, which is due to replace the outdated partnership and cooperation agreement, at the earliest opportunity. President Dmitry Medvedev made the announcement after the EU-Rus

Speaking at a press conference, Medvedev said:
    
“Hopefully, talks on all the essential clauses of this document will begin in the nearest future. In my view, it should be both meaningful, on the one hand, and on the other, very tough in structure.”

The new basic document between Russia and EU should “set the working framework for years ahead,” he added.

“I do not know exactly when this work will be over. I would like to see this happen in the foreseeable future. At any rate, we have the current document. So far our relations are based on it. But the sooner we achieve a new document, the better. Russia is open to this work and is willing to work hard all the time,” Medvedev said.

The Russian President also reiterated that his government completely recognizes the territorial integrity of Georgia, taking into account Moscow's earlier recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent states.

"Recognition of South Ossetia and Abkhazia is final and not liable to revision.