Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 218: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which he intends to instigate the promotion of better relations between Russia and the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42315/09]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Russia is an important strategic partner for the EU, particularly in terms of trade, energy and the Common Neighbourhood. Trade and investment between the EU and Russia have grown substantially. The EU is Russia's largest trading partner while Russia is now the EU's third biggest trading partner. Negotiations are currently underway between the EU and Russia on a new agreement to replace the existing Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. The successful conclusion of these negotiations will be important in the context of developing the EU-Russia relationship further.

As the Deputy may be aware, an EU-Russia Summit is taking place in Stockholm today. The Summit agenda includes: (i) climate change and energy; (ii) the economic and financial crisis; (iii) EU-Russia relations; and (iv) international issues. Other issues expected to arise include the important issue of human rights, the Common Neighbourhood, energy and Russia's WTO membership.

Ireland supports the development of the EU-Russia relationship and the potential that it offers, not just in economic terms but also in terms of peace and real security for the continent and beyond. We see the Summit as an opportunity to review developments in the relationship on many fronts, including the negotiations on a new EU-Russia agreement. We believe that it is important for the EU to maintain a constructive and frank relationship with Russia which develops areas of shared interest while at the same time addressing areas of difference. The improved relationship between Russia and the US is something I particularly welcome. I believe it offers an opportunity for us all, and notably the EU, to forge a more stable and balanced relationship with Russia for the future.

Our bilateral relationship with Russia has also developed in recent years, particularly in terms of trade. In 2008, Russia was Ireland's 32nd largest merchandise trading partner with trade valued at €467m. In 2007, Russia was Ireland's 15th largest services trading partner, with trade valued at €1.2bn.