ABSTRACT
The gradual development of the G7-Russia partnership began at the end of the 1980s between the former foes in the Cold War—the G7 partners as representatives of the West and the Soviet Union as the pillar of the communist bloc. As Russia integrates further into the world economy, its goals are bound to change. Russia’s G8 membership allows it to create necessary conditions for implementing economic reforms at home. At the 2004 Sea Island Summit, the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative—due to end that year—was extended until 31 December 2006. The Russian Federation is rendering significant assistance in the spheres of training of specialists and health. Indeed, the security issue today dominates almost any gathering in the international arena. Ecological issues are traditionally very contentious in Russia. The G8 is better equipped to respond well to the world problems then the G7 was, because today no serious global problem can be solved without Russia.
