NATO seeks cooperation from Russia

NATO is seeking closer cooperation with Russia on its operations in Afghanistan. The organization's Secretary-General, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, is on his first visit to Moscow, where he met with the country's top leaders.

Anders Fogh Rasmussen has told Russian President Dmitry Medvedev that his nation's cooperation in NATO's Afghanistan operation benefits both sides.

Anders Fogh Rasmussen, NATO's Secretary-General, said, "One of my priorities as Secretary-General of NATO is to improve the relationship between NATO and Russia."

Medvedev says Russia is ready to increase joint efforts with NATO, due to a rise in common threats.

Dmitry Medvedev, Russian President, said, "A good deal depends on the level of cooperation between Russia and NATO. Not long ago, I put forward an initiative on concluding a treaty on European security. I know it's being thoroughly studied, including by NATO partners. I hope this subject will also be discussed during your visit."

NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, right, and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev shake hands in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2009.(AP Photo/ Sergei Karpuhin, pool)