Russia may return to NATO operation in the Mediterranean

24.12.2010 Moscow does not exclude resuming of Russia's participation in NATO Operation Active Endeavour, reported RIA Novosti referring to Alexander Grushko, deputy foreign minister.

NATO Operation Active Endeavour was launched in the Mediterranean Sea after terrorist attack happened in Sept 2001 in the U.S. The operation implies involvement of NATO warships in civil shipping security in the Mediterranean Sea. Russia suspended its participation this summer.

"It is possible that Russia would resume attending this operation", Grushko said.

As for him, both Russia and NATO understand the necessity to end "the cold war legacies together".

Speaking of practical cooperation between Russia and the Alliance, Grushko reminded that in accordance with the common threats and challenges analysis made by NATO-Russia Council, in 2011 the parties will continue to cooperate in non-proliferation, anti-piracy, and Afghanistan issues.