Interfax's Interview

Mr. Prime minister, what issues are you going to discuss during your visit to Russia and what is your opinion about the current state of relations between Russia and the Netherlands?

 Above all, this visit reflects the close and diverse bilateral relationship between the Netherlands and the Russian Federation. Obviously there will be a strong focus on the economy and trade, but we will also be concentrating on strengthening bilateral relations in the political and social sphere. The Netherlands has contributed to the revision of the Russian Civil Code, for example, a crucial step in strengthening the rule of law in Russia. International concerns will also be on the agenda. Climate change and the situation regarding Kosovo are both issues that call for a collaborative approach from the international community. Russia is an essential partner in that community. 

Economic ties between our countries have been significantly increasing in the recent years. Do you think it is possible that mutual trade turnover between the Netherlands and Russia could surpass $40 billion in the near future, and if yes, what sectors of the economy could play a key role in this?

 Our economic and trade statistics are indeed impressive and we are one of the major investors in Russia. Without going into the numbers themselves, I certainly feel there is further potential. This is partly the reason why the CEOs of some large Dutch multinationals and a trade mission of small and medium-sized companies will be accompanying me to Moscow. Traditionally, the Dutch are strong in finance, energy, logistics and agriculture, but I can see our commercial interests becoming more diverse.  

Do you share the concerns of certain Western politicians about what they perceive as Russia’s aggressive behavior in energy matters? Do you consider Russia to be a reliable energy supplier, bearing in mind that it covers 30% of the Netherlands’ demand in oil?

 Energy security is vital for our economies and depends on a predictable relationship between suppliers and consumers. So it is understandable that disturbances in that relationship cause some concern. It is important to proceed carefully on this issue. Our experience is that Russia has always been a reliable supplier. Energy will be one of the subjects of my discussion with President Putin, and that discussion will include relations between the EU and Russia in this area.

When do you think the deals involving the Dutch concern Gasunie’s accession to the Nord Stream project and shipments of Russian natural gas through the Balgzand-Bacton Line could be completed?

 It is my understanding that the intention is to have a contract signed during my visit to Russia. The project will give a major impetus to the Netherlands' ambition to become a gas hub in the northwest European market. It is a good example of reciprocal investment that will benefit our energy relationship with Russia.

Are you satisfied with the fate of the Sakhalin-2 project, or do you regret the fact that Russian gas giant Gazprom has acquired a controlling stake in it?

 At the time, both President Putin and I felt that this affair should be settled in a mutually acceptable way. Eventually it was and our discussions contributed to that outcome. I think it is important to look ahead now and ensure the success of this important and challenging project.
 
The relationship between Russia and the European Union has been difficult recently, and the two sides have still not started working on a new cooperation agreement. Do you agree that these difficulties have been determined by problems within the EU itself?  What ways do you see for settling the crisis?

 Negotiations on a renewed Partnership and Cooperation Agreement have been suspended but I am confident that negotiations will be able to get under way before long. We are making every effort to that effect. As neighbors, the EU and Russia are partners in the international political arena. We share common challenges and we need to cooperate on outstanding issues. I prefer to focus on the long-term importance of this relationship and to steer clear of ad hoc policies driven by single issues. The Netherlands, for its part, attaches great importance to a more ambitious PCA that will reflect the intensification of the overall relationship.   

Russia is likely to suspend its participation in the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) soon, it says because the NATO countries have not given their consent to the ratification of the agreement on the CFE’s adaptation. What do you think about the future of the system of control over conventional weapons in Europe and what should be done to preserve it?

 The Netherlands and all other NATO members regard the CFE Treaty as a cornerstone of European security and we would sincerely regret Russian suspension. It is important to intensify consultations between Russia and NATO on the issues relating to security policy in Europe. The approach should be one of engagement and dialogue. I am convinced that a better understanding of each other’s position and concerns, as well as constructively dealing with differences of opinion, will lead to a positive outcome for all parties.

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