NATO: Russia Should Remain Partner in Fighting Terrorism After Paris Attack

Russia should be the bloc's partner in the fight against terrorism, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said.

MOSCOW, January 8 (Sputnik) – Russia should remain a partner in the fight against terrorism, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said in the wake of the deadly attack on Charlie Hebdo magazine's office in Paris.

"We  have for many years worked together with Russia in fighting terrorism. And terrorism is a threat and a problem for many countries, including Russia. And that’s the reason why we still strive for a more cooperative and constructive relationship with Russia," Stoltenberg said at Christian Social Union (CSU) party conference in Widbad Kreuth, Germany.

The Secretary General also denounced the attack on the French magazine's headquarters as an attack on the freedom of the press and open society.

On Wednesday, three men attacked the office of the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris, killing 12 people and injuring 11. Seven individuals suspected of their involvement in the attack have already been arrested, with a nationwide manhunt for two gunmen still underway.

Relations between NATO and Russia have become strained over the Ukrainian crisis. In April 2014, the alliance ceased all practical cooperation with Russia, limiting contacts to ambassadorial and higher levels.