Eastern vector gives Russia firmer foothold in international scene - Lavrov

MOSCOW, November 19. /TASS/. The eastern vector of Russia’s foreign policy is considered not as an alternative to relations with the West, but as a factor for implementing in practice the principle of multi-vectored activities in the international scene, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told the State Duma on Wednesday. He believes that a multi-vectored policy gives Russia a firmer foothold in the international scene. “Russia is for creating reliable security mechanisms in the Asia-pacific region. These mechanisms are to be based on non-bloc principles,” Lavrov said. “This is the aim of the Russian-Chinese initiative for drafting new framework principles of a new regional security architecture. This initiative is being discussed in detail by experts from the countries participating in eastern Asia summits. “The dynamic development of our eastern territories is a national priority for the whole 21st century,” Lavrov said. “Hence our interest towards more active and productive involvement in integration processes in the Asia-Pacific Region and in tapping its potential for an economic upturn in Siberia and the Far East.” Lavrov drew attention to the deepening of Russia’s diversified ties with China, India, Vietnam and other partners in the Asia-Pacific region. Read more