The European Union and Russia: the future relationship

The Council welcomed the successful EU-Russian Federation summit held in Moscow on 3 March 1997. The Council recalled that the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement provides a wide range of possibilities for strengthening political and economic relations. The entry into force of this agreement, which is expected to take place later in 1997, will give new quality to the relations between the EU and Russia. In order to take account of the discussions at the summit, the Council instructed COREPER to ensure that all necessary actions will be taken in cooperation with the Russian authorities to provide for the effective functioning of the agreement as from its entry into force. In particular, consideration will be given to the necessary measures to establish the institutions foreseen by the agreement. The Council underlines the potential for cooperation provided for by the PCA. �