MOSCOW, February 26, 2004. (RIA Novosti). Moscow is ready to participate in the discussion of the Middle East project initiated by the USA and some European countries, Russian acting Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov told the Al-Arabiya TV channel. The interview with Al-Arabiya is available at the Russian Foreign Ministry's website.
According to Igor Ivanov, Russia has no clear idea of this project, first of all, its geographic aspect.
Ivanov pointed out Russia's interest in promoting the Mideastern settlement. "This region should be an area of stability and prosperity. We are ready to join this discussion if this is at issue," Igor Ivanov said.
In his words, the attitude of Mideastern countries to such projects is also important.
"These projects should not be imposed on them and should meet national interests of the region. In this case Russia is ready to participate in these projects," the acting Foreign Minister said.
