"I can't but notice generally positive dynamics in the development of relations between Russia and NATO. We are ready to bring our cooperation with NATO countries to a new level," he said at the 41st International Conference on security policy.
As prospective areas of cooperation with NATO on the new level, the Russian defense minister mentioned operative compatibility of military forces and elimination of consequences of various natural and industrial disasters.
"The development of direct contacts between the Alliance and the Collective Security Treaty Organization might also have a positive effect," Mr. Ivanov added.
The minister also told the participants of the conference that the first Russian peacekeeping brigade formed in the Volga-Urals federal district would be soon included in the joint Russian-NATO program on increasing operative compatibility of the troops.
"The brigade will become part of the program after we have coordinated a number of organizational issues," Mr. Ivanov said.
He informed the participants that the brigade was receiving additional weaponry and military equipment at present.
"The personnel of the brigade have started combat training in accordance with a training program that tackles the specifics of peacekeeping operations," Mr. Ivanov added.
The creation of a special peacekeeping brigade in Russia in the Volga-Urals federal district on contract basis was finalized on February 1, 2005.
On behalf of the Russian President, Sergei Ivanov awarded chairman of the Munich security conference Prof. Dr. Horst Teltschik with the Order of Friendship.
"I have known Dr. Teltschik as a politician, businessman and public activist for several years," Mr. Ivanov emphasized.
In his turn, Dr. Teltschik expressed his sincere gratitude to the Russian defense minister.
