Marc Franco, Head of the European Commission Delegation to Russia, said: "We should work to overcome the difficulties hampering the launch of negotiations. We will hope that all these problems will be settled during Portugal's EU presidency."
Poland vetoed the launch of negotiations between Russia and the EU on a new Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) following Russia's embargo on Polish meat imports. The current EU-Russia agreement expires at the end of 2007.
"It is a pity we have not yet launched the negotiations, because the launch could make it possible to outline prospects for further cooperation," Franco said. "However, we are not staying idle, and the work is proceeding."
Speaking of the Polish meat problem, Franco said that the European Commission proposed lifting the embargo first, then sending experts to dubious meat factories. However, Russia rejected the proposal, insisting on new inspections.
Portuguese Ambassador to Russia Manuel Marcelo Curto, who held a presentation of his country's presidency of the EU, warned the parties against dramatizing the problem.
"A new agreement with Russia remains a priority for Europe," he said. "We know that the problem exists, and we will do our best to overcome the current difficulties."
The Portuguese diplomat said that, as the EU chair, Lisbon would prioritize relations with African nations and cooperation between Europe and Latin America and Caribbean countries, with an emphasis on dialogue with Brazil.
However, Kurtu said the above plans would not weaken the EU's cooperation with Russia, which is considered "one of the key partners for Europe."
Portugal took over the European Union's presidency Sunday.
