Press Statement 24 July 2000

Statement
NATO-Russia Permanent Joint Council Meeting At Ambassadorial Level

The NATO-Russia Permanent Joint Council at Ambassadorial level met on Monday 24 July 2000, at NATO Headquarters.

Following a briefing on the meeting of Military Representatives under the auspices of the PJC held on 6 July 2000, Ambassadors discussed the situation in the former Yugoslavia and exchanged views on NATO-Russia cooperation in the international security presence in Kosovo (KFOR). NATO Ambassadors shared assessments of their recent visit to Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina (17-19 July 2000), emphasising the good cooperation between Russian and NATO troops on the ground. NATO
and Russia reiterated their determination to continue to work towards the full implementation of the UNSCR 1244 and to cooperate in all areas, including the protection of Kosovo's minorities.

As part of their ongoing discussions on questions related to strategy and military doctrines of NATO and Russia, Ambassadors received a briefing on the Russian Military Doctrine and continued their exchange of views on issues related to strategy and military doctrine initiated in March.

Ambassadors addressed ways of enhancing dialogue, transparency, confidence and cooperation between NATO and Russia, inter alia in the  PJC.

They also reviewed information activities, including the ongoing negotiations for the establishment of a NATO Information Office in Moscow.

The next PJC meeting at Ambassadorial level will be held on 20 September 2000.