"Blackseafor objectives must be constantly kept up to date, and facing current security realities on the Black Sea should obviously be prioritized now," Vladimir Masorin, commander-in-chief of the Russian Navy, said at a meeting with naval commanders of Blackseafor countries.
Formally established at Turkey's initiative in 2001, Blackseafor - which comprises Turkey, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Romania, Georgia and Russia - conducts search and rescue operations, and environmental monitoring, and organizes goodwill visits among Black Sea countries. Its charter says Blackseafor can also be deployed for peacekeeping operations under a UN or OSCE mandate.
Masorin said the task force should keep developing to prevent it from weakening. "This organization makes our fleets and countries closer and ensures stability and confidence on the Black Sea," he said.
Russia will take over command of Blackseafor in August 2006, which Masorin said was great responsibility.
