Introduction

The relationship between the EU and Russia in today's changing world characterizes both parties as close neighbors, global players and strategic partners that are steadily moving from competition to cooperation.

The June 2008 Summit between the EU and the Russian Federation marked the launch of negotiations on a New EU-Russia Agreement replacing the Partnership and Co-operation Agreement established in 1997. The new agreement will need to take into account the considerable developments seen across the EU and in Russia over the past ten years.

Aside from certain political challenges, excellent opportunities exist to establish a new common agenda and joint activities, particularly in the field of innovation and technological development. This area represents a key priority both for the Russian Federation as laid down in the concept of the Four I's, and the European Union under the framework of the Lisbon Strategy.

The November 2009 EU-Russia Summit launched the idea of a Modernization Partnership. These two issues, Innovation Cooperation & Modernization Partnership, offer an excellent basis for developing a more competitive and effective joint economic region of the EU and Russia.

For more information:

Katja Keinänen
Development Manager
Lappeenranta Innovation Ltd
Laserkatu 6
FI-53850 Lappeenranta FINLAND
Tel. +358 50 40 24 9944
Fax. +358 5 412 0949
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