From Plans to Substance: EU-Russia Relations During the British Presidency "Russie.Nei.Visions", No. 5, August 2005

Moscow's relationships with both Brussels and London have been bumpy. Nonetheless, recent progress in EU-Russie relations suggests the potential for refashioning the 'strategic partnership' in a more realistic manner. The UK's priorities are to build on the successes of the Luxembourg presidency and convert plans into practical projects. There are a number of difficulties however, including continuing differences in values and potential clashes of interests. These are likely to be exacerbated by problems in the policy-making structures on both sides. Although the chance exists to add momentum to the relationship, progress will be slow and small scale.