"EU expansion is part of a natural world process of integration and globalization. That's why we treat this process rather positively. But, quite naturally, we proceed from the fact that during these processes, during EU enlargement, new dividing lines in Europe, new virtual 'Berlin walls' should not be created," said the head of the Russian state.
Mr. Putin noted that the European Union was the most important trade-economic partner of Russia: some 50% of the whole foreign trade turnover of the Russian Federation falls on its share.
"Russia is itself a European country, and not only because important political and economic centers are here, but because Russian culture is first of all European culture," stressed Mr. Putin.
The president said the negotiating process with the EU had been difficult. Russia was concerned about how the EU enlargement would tell on traditional trade and economic ties of the Russian Federation with partners in Central and Eastern Europe.
"Some things keep worrying us still. On the whole, I want to note: dialogue with the European Union is proceeding positively, and we are capable of a compromise, as practice of the recent times shows. Both Russia and our European partners," concluded the Russian president.
The Russian president also said Russia spoke for UN reformation, but these processes should not lead to destruction of the organization.
"The international community does not have any such universal organization like the UN. At the same time, the UN must meet modern requirements, take into account the realities of the modern world. That's why we speak for its reformation," stressed the Russian president.
In his words, enlargement of the Security Council composition is not the only reformation trend. "Here we need to talk about expanding humanitarian functions of the United Nations, peacekeeping efforts etc.," said the Russian president.
