Poland's government, led by new Prime Minister Donald Tusk, has lifted its block on Russia starting talks to join the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
Russia has been trying to join the OECD since 1996 but Poland had been blocking talks on the grounds that Russia did not match the qualifications to join the organisation.
Polish President Lech Kaczynski was surprised at the cabinet's warming-up to Russia, and also concerned that his office was not consulted on the issue.
Warsaw's change of heart does not mean Russia will be able to join the OECD overnight as membership talks can last for years.
The move is likely to improve Warsaw and Moscow relations, which suffered under the previous Polish administration. ( RT )