J. Arnoldski
Fort RussThu, 01 Dec 2016 15:03 UTC
Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved Russia's new foreign policy doctrine. The corresponding decree and text of the document have just been published.
According to the document, Russia considers its priority to be the strengthening of international law. Moscow strictly adheres to obligations on arms control and is seeking the same from its partners.
The new foreign policy document also emphasizes that Russia is ready to further discuss the gradual reduction of nuclear potential.
The document pays special attention to relations with NATO and the United States. Russia negatively assesses NATO's expansion, the moving of the alliance's military infrastructure closer to Russia's borders, and the escalation of its military operations.
It is also noted that Russia considers the establishment of the American "global missile defense system" to be a threat, and reserves the right to take adequate measures. In addition, Moscow attaches great importance to implementing the treaty with Washington on strategic offensive arms and expects that the US will, in its actions on the world stage, strictly adhere to the norms of international law.
In addition, Moscow stands for settling the crisis in Syria and the unity, independence, and territorial integrity of the country. With regards to combating terrorism, the document says that the key focus should be creating a broad international coalition.
The conceptual document notes that the main trend at the contemporary stage of global development is the struggle for dominance in the world. The new policy document emphasizes the lack of alternatives to the UN as a center for regulating international relations.
Comment: Putin followed up with his Moscow speech:
We won't allow infringement of Russia's rights, will decide our own fate
During his annual address to Russian lawmakers, President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow is ready for dialogue with its international partners, but will not allow them to infringe on its interests or meddle in its decision-making.
"We will not allow any infringement on the interests of the Russian Federation and we will manage our own destiny without tips and unsolicited advice," the Russian leader said.
He noted, however, that Russia is ready to participate in solving global and regional crises when necessary.
"We understand the extent of our responsibility and are sincerely willing to take part in solving global and regional problems, of course, where our involvement is appropriate, necessary, and in demand," the president stated.
"We are committed to a friendly, equal dialogue, to upholding the principles of justice and mutual respect in international affairs; we are ready for serious discussion on the creation of a stable system of international relations in the 21st century. Unfortunately, in this respect, the decades since the end of the 'Cold War' have gone by in vain," Putin noted, apparently referring to current tensions with NATO and the EU.
He said that Russia stands for "the safety and the possibility of development, not for just the chosen few, but for all countries and peoples, for respect for international law and the diversity of the world."
Comment: Putin followed up with his Moscow speech: We won't allow infringement of Russia's rights, will decide our own fate