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Russia does not plan accession to NATO or EU - Putin

Putin marked high living standards in Europe, stressing, however, that they are also growing in Russia

MOSCOW, October 6 (Itar-Tass) — Russia is not going to join NATO or the European Union, its main task is to improve the standard of living of its citizens, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said at the Russia Calling investment forum in Moscow on Thursday.

In reply to the query whether Russia is planning to join NATO or the EU, the prime minister said “Now, we are not going to, we are capable to ensure our own security”.

He emphasized, however, that Russia would continue developing relations with NATO and the European Union. As for cooperation with the EU, Putin noted that Europe is not a geographic notion, it spreads to the Pacific Ocean as people of European culture live there.

“I simply cannot imagine how people of that cultural space can be preserved as a worthy centre of the world policy and power without joining efforts for the future generations,” he stressed.

At the same time, Putin marked high living standards in Europe, stressing, however, that they are also growing in Russia. “Compare the situation of the early 1990s and that of now. The difference is substantial. Living standards have improved twofold,” he emphasized.

Putin pledged that the Russian government would continue working to improve living standards, and, in particular, would fight against corruption.