The Russian minister arrived in Romania to participate in an informal session of the Russia-NATO Council at the level of defense ministers.
"I believe this is a good possibility of a frank discussion of all Russia-NATO cooperation issues, above all, in the fight against international terrorism," Mr. Ivanov told journalists.
"In my opinion, at this meeting we should discuss not joint statements on intentions but practical counter-terrorist programs," the minister added.
In his words, plans of joint exercises will be considered at the meeting, as well.
"We shall discuss many issues, sum up the results of joint work in 2004 and outline joint exercises for 2005," Sergei Ivanov said.
According to the minister, on Wednesday and Thursday he will hold bilateral talks with NATO counterparts, in particular, defense ministers of France, the U.S., Great Britain, Germany and Romania. Moreover, Mr. Ivanov is to meet with NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer.
