Iceland considers necessary interaction of all countries of the Arctic region with Russia without reference to the situation around Ukraine, said the Ambassador of Iceland to the USA Geir Chord.

"The issue of relations with Russia in this context is very complex. In our opinion, despite their differences with Russia and the problems in bilateral relations because of what happened in Crimea and Ukraine, do not "mix drinks" - we need to keep the interaction in the Arctic separately from other issues - ed.)", - said the Chord at the round table on the problems of relations in the Arctic region.

"in my opinion, if you work in the Arctic, then there would be absolutely unreasonable to leave aside the huge Arctic country - the Russian Federation," added the Chord, held in 2006-2009 as Prime Minister of Iceland.

Russia and Iceland are members of the Arctic Council, where there are six countries - Denmark, Canada, Norway, USA, Finland and Sweden. This international organization aims to promote cooperation in the field of protection of natural factors and to ensure the sustainable development of circumpolar regions. The issues of military security within the purview of the Arctic Council are not included.

in the last few years, Russia has begun active development in the Arctic, which includes both economic activity and measures to maintain security in the area.

sections: Politics