He also stated that the committee intended to prepare a statement that would specify Russsia's most fundamental positions within the context of ratification and Russia's future cooperation with other parties to the treaty.
The deputy stressed that ratification of the agreement would not entail any crucial changes in the military sphere.
In terms of policy it will allow Russia to be more demanding regarding the request of the North Atlantic Alliance to accelerate ratification of the document. He also believes that from the political viewpoint the Treaty conforms with Russia's fundamental interests, provided 100% participation of the parties.
The CFE Treaty was signed in November 1990 and provides for limitation of conventional armaments deployment in the territory of the European countries. On May 1, 10 new members joined the North Atlantic Alliance, among them four countries, the Baltic states and Slovenia, are not parties to the treaty. Hence, Europe will have a "grey zone", where conventional armaments build-up can be unlimited.
Kosachev reminded that Russia had been officially assured by NATO leadership as well as by the non-participating states, that they intended to join this agreement.
