All problems which have arisen in the course of Russia's cooperation with the European Union can be solved, Yastrzhembsky told RIA Novosti Friday.
In his words, Russia and the EU are negotiating quite a few issues at this stage. For example, the issue of freight transits via the Kaliningrad region still remains to be settled. Add to this lack of understanding as regards the solution of the Russian-speaking population's problems in Latvia and Estonia, Yastrzhembsky noted. In his opinion, certain problems arise during efforts to draft an agreement on more lenient visa-regime regulations.
The existence of specific problems doesn't a priori highlight a catastrophe or trouble; most importantly both sides must strive to solve these problems, Yastrzhembsky went on to say.
The EU and Russia are interested partners; our relations hinge on a solid and long-term foundation, he added.
Yastrzhembsky mentioned some examples of that successful Russia-EU interaction; among other things, problems around Iranian and North Korean nuclear files have been solved; moreover, both sides are cooperating on the Mideastern peace settlement.
As far as the economic sphere is concerned, Russia meets 20 percent of all EU oil demand, as well as 30 percent of its gas demand. Russia will continue to provide the EU with additional fuel and energy, Yastrzhembsky added.
Yastrzhembsky conferred with Irkutsk regional administrators, representatives of big industrial enterprises, scientific and public organizations today. Those taking part in the Irkutsk conference discussed the state of Russia-EU cooperation and its prospects, as well as the role of Russian territories during such interaction.
