LONDON (Islamweb & News Agencies) - Galvanized by the September 11 attacks on the United States, Prime Minister Tony Blair is pushing for a new, closer relationship between NATO and Russia, a senior British official said on Friday.
The aide said Blair had written a four-page letter to NATO chief George Robertson and all leaders of the 19-member alliance suggesting a new ``Russian/North Atlantic Council.''
The prospect of the Cold War enemies fighting side by side is one envisioned under a the NATO-Russia forum Blair is personally championing. Earlier areas of cooperation are likely to include counter-terrorism and the control of weapons of mass destruction.
``Our view is that it will be more than collaborative... not just a talking shop,'' the official told journalists.
``This is isn't about Russia joining NATO or... taking part in the integrated military structure of NATO,'' he said, but added: ``I don't rule out doing military things together.''
Signs of a closer relationship have been floating around even before September 11. Not all Blair's proposals are new.
Earlier this week in the United States, Russian President Vladimir Putin made a case for Russia to work more closely with NATO to counter terrorism and the spread of weapons of mass destruction.
NATO chief Robertson, a former British defense minister, is expected to visit Russia next week to promote wider cooperation.