Brussels, 30/09/2002 (Agence Europe) - The EU Council debated a future agreement with Russia on Kaliningrad, but without reaching conclusions. France, Italy, Spain and Greece insist that the Union swiftly undertake a feasibility study on a direct train without visas between Russia and Kaliningrad, but other are reluctant. Ana Palacio told the press that she wanted the feasibility study over the train to begin very quickly, and Dominique de Villepin stressed the "need to take account of Russia's real openings": according to him, "we have to agree to study the project of a train and not reject the long term option of abolishing visas between the EU and Russia once all conditions have been met". Lithuania, passage country between Russia and Kaliningrad, does not want to hear of such a project before enlargement, and Commissioner Verheugen warned Member states not to initiate the project without the country's agreement. Otherwise, Member states backed the approach proposed by the Commission: reach an agreement that does not harm either the integrity of the Schengen system of common EU borders, nor the interests of Poland or Lithuania; envisage a permanent visa system between continental Russia and Kaliningrad, and study the idea of a train (EUROPE of 19 September, p. 7). They will therefore try to define a common position at the European council of 24 and 25 October. For its part, Russia wants to be offered the prospect of a long term abolition of visas for all Russians. At the Summit of 11 November, it should insist on the rapid launch of the project of a train without visas.