Brussels, 18 February 1997 (RFE/RL) - U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, speaking to NATO foreign ministers, today proposed that the alliance form a joint military brigade with Russia.
Albright also called for a joint meeting in the spring with Russia and prospective new alliance members as NATO prepares to expand eastward. NATO plans to extend formal invitations in July for a first group of nations to begin accession talks.
Russia has consistently opposed NATO expansion.
Albright said today that she envisioned a council linking NATO to Russia that would deal with major security issues.
Albright leaves for London later today, continuing her first major tour as U.S. Secretary of State. She visits Moscow on Thursday.
Albright also called for a joint meeting in the spring with Russia and prospective new alliance members as NATO prepares to expand eastward. NATO plans to extend formal invitations in July for a first group of nations to begin accession talks.
Russia has consistently opposed NATO expansion.
Albright said today that she envisioned a council linking NATO to Russia that would deal with major security issues.
Albright leaves for London later today, continuing her first major tour as U.S. Secretary of State. She visits Moscow on Thursday.