06/07/2009 (Agence Europe) - Dirk Ahner, Director General at the European Commission (DG Regional policy) met representatives of the Dutch-Russian International Centre, the Duma (parliament of the Russian Federation) and the St Petersburg administration to discuss the European strategy for the Baltic Sea Region. The strategy, adopted by the European Commission on 10 June, proposes a range of initiatives and projects to help this macro-region to develop and meet the challenges facing it (see EUROPE 9916). As a European Union strategy, it does not commit third countries, such as Russia, the Commission notes, but it is clear that the whole strategy will be more effective if implemented in close cooperation with Russia and other neighbouring countries. The Northern Dimension is a concrete example, the Commission adds. A conference on cooperation among coastal states around Europe is due to take place in October. (G.B./transl.rt)