Russia, Ecuador ink declaration of strategic partnership

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev (R) applauses with Ecuadoran President Rafael Correa during a document signing ceremony after meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow, capital of Russia, October 29, 2009. They signed a declaration of strategic partnership between the two countries at the Kremlin on Thursday. (Xinhua/Alexandrov)
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and his visiting Ecuadorian counterpart Rafael Correa signed a declaration of strategic partnership between the two countries at the Kremlin on Thursday.

In a nine-page document, the two countries said they were determined to strengthen dialogue and consultations in the fields of security and defense, and invigorate cooperation between the United Nations and regional organizations.

Russia and Ecuador also unanimously expressed willingness to cooperate on fighting terrorism, fighting transborder organized crime, drug trafficking and other threats to international security.

Meanwhile, the two countries vowed to enhance cooperation on environmental protection, economic, trade and financial partnership, the humanitarian sphere as well as in the areas of education, culture, sports, tourism, science and technology.

The declaration said the strategic partnership between Russia and Ecuador was neither targeted against third countries nor aimed at seeking a military-political alliance.

Correa arrived in Moscow Wednesday night for an official visit to Russia, during which the two countries also struck seven deals, including energy cooperation and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

"Relations between Russia and Latin American states have significantly strengthened over the past several years... Ecuador for us is one of our strategic partners on the Latin American continent," said Medvedev when meeting with Correa.

Correa, for his part, said Ecuador awaited Russia's participation in all its major economic projects.

"We expect great economic support from Russia related both to its technological potential and financing opportunities," he said.

Source: Xinhua