"Speed in such a serious and long-term matter is of second importance. The main thing here is the 'quality' of the accession, that is, our commitments. It is this circumstance that should dominate at the final stage of the negotiations," Mr. Kondakov said.
He said that although a quick solution to the "WTO problem" may seem attractive, it is very important "not to yield to the growing rush," but to try to achieve a situation that would "minimize the inevitable payment for an entry ticket and would maximize the advantages connected with the membership."
Mr. Kondakov also warned against over-politicizing the process of joining the WTO. "Emphasis on political aspects may create illusions and it seems that it has already created illusions somewhere in the West that we will accept the tough conditions of a WTO entry, being guided by political motives above all and that economic expediency is not of prime importance for us in this case. Such illusions are very dangerous and can hamper our negotiations on joining the WTO," Mr. Kondakov said.
Pointing out that entry into the WTO for Russia is "a well thought-out strategic choice, following the logic of our market reforms," Mr. Kondakov at the same time underscored that "the fate of the entire Russian economy is at stake."
"Therefore, all decisions connected with joining the WTO should be strictly checked and thought out without unnecessary haste in this case," he said.
