"When Russia began forming the Eurasian Economic Union, Brussels didn't take it seriously as a competitor, but what is happening now is irreversible," said Hartmann, who was the only participant not from Russia or the ten-member Association of SouthEast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
"Of course, Russia will not leave Europe completely, but the summit shows a new dynamic, a new energy, new ideas and initiatives for cooperation."
"Both sides (at the summit) believe that these prospects are possible to achieve, and that belief gives that energy to the whole meeting."
"I am worried by how unperturbed the EU is by what is happening, in the complete belief that Russia will return. Yes, but, a reorientation is happening. That should become a signal to action for the EU. The ASEAN is breaking down barriers, and the EU and US are creating barriers with sanctions."
