Russian Foreign Policy

The 2008 Foreign Policy Concept reflects Russian views on the contemporary world as well as tasks and objectives that we pursue. The Concept covers processes that occur in the entire world and its main regions. This document serves as a foundation for the Russian foreign policy strategy which is in line with qualitatively new geopolitical situation.

Today we face one of the crucial stages in the development of modern history. We witness the surfacing of a new international framework, establishment of the polycentric system of international relations with multipolar reality spreading to every level of cooperation. G-20 formed in 2009 is an example in this respect.

Increasingly complex and dynamic international life forces us to look for solutions within network diplomacy rather than entangling military and political blocs of the past with their onerous commitments. The point is that we should search for partners pursuing concurrent interests formulated in a pragmatic and deideologized way rather than unite against any other country. We believe that it is the multilateral diplomacy that is the most effective instrument for securing Russian national interests in foreign policy.

There is a growing perception that no state or a group of states are able to solve any of acute international problems alone and that current problems, including conflict resolution and crisis management, can not be solved by force. There are no alternatives to political and diplomatic tools with the involvement of all parties concerned to reach consent.

Russia pursues multivector foreign policy based on the clear understanding of its potential and responsibility, readiness to equal and mutually beneficial cooperation with those who are interested in it.

Securing favourable conditions for the development of our country is the fundamental priority of Russian foreign policy. External activities are closely linked to the need of comprehensive modernization of society and heading towards innovation-based economy.

It implies safe military and political conditions, stable borders and conflicts resolution. There is also a necessity for more effective mechanisms to protect rights of Russian business on global markets. Modernization also means more robust humanitarian dimension of foreign policy.

Therefore Russia strives to set forth initiatives proceeding from its responsibility in international affairs and international law. For instance, the proposal on Treaty on European security that could contribute to a positive agenda in Euro-Atlantic policy and to inclusive collective security system. Solving this problem could be an important step putting an end to ideology and practices of cold war.

Current financial crisis provides a unique opportunity not only to improve global financial and economic system but also to create a positive agenda for the entire international community. It urges us to collective actions. The improvement of world financial architecture will contribute to further deideologization and demilitarization of international relations that will enhance the guarantees against eruption of large-scale military conflicts in the world.

There is a lot to be done to fulfill these tasks. Russia is ready to work in an creative manner and strengthen constructive cooperation with those who express mutual interest on the principals of equality, mutual respect and benefit.