EU-Russia summit to take place despite tensions[fr][de] 

Normally held twice annually, EU-Russia summits are a forum for discussing a range of bilateral issues, the most important of which is strategic co-operation in the field of energy. The EU, which imports 50% of its energy and much of it from Russia, wants to "to enhance the energy security of the European continent by binding Russia and the EU into a closer relationship in which all issues of mutual concern in the energy sector can be addressed while, at the same time, ensuring that the policies of opening and integrating energy markets are pursued". 

Russia is in need of European investments to modernise pipelines and other infrastructure, and is currently in the process of applying for WTO membership. 

But Russia is not keen to submit its energy market to outside influence and greater market transparency, nor does it seem to be in any hurry to provide the EU with greater energy supply guarantees. This is a cause of concern for the EU, as Russia already proved its willingness to use its vast natural-gas reserves and dominant energy position as a coercive diplomatic tool when it cut natural gas flows to the Ukraine in January 2006 over an apparent legal dispute. 

There is great uncertainty about the content and success of this year's summit. Certain EU member states are opposed to engaging in wide-ranging co-operation discussions with Russia. Lithuania is withholding its support for the upcoming talks because of a 10-month cut in natural gas flows to one of its main power stations, and Poland had threatened to veto the summit over an ongoing trade dispute involving Polish meat, but it has not made any official declaration. 

In addition to Polish and Lithuanian complaints, the summit is being overshadowed by a number of issues, including a row over the removal of a Russian war memorial from the centre of the Estonian capital Tallinn to the outskirts of the city, and the violent suppression by Russian police of a peaceful anti-Kremlin demonstration in April.

Earlier this month, there was speculation that the EU might veto Russia's WTO application if relations do not improve (EurActiv 07/05/07).