( Itar-Tass ) - NATO is calling on Russia to hold a dialogue on the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) problem, it is said in an official statement circulated by the press service of the North Atlantic Alliance here on Monday.
NATO attaches major importance to the CFE Treaty and calls on Russia to settle CFE-related problems by way of a dialogue, the statement stresses.
The Alliance also expressed profound concern over this unilateral decision on Russia (on CFE suspension).
NATO spokesman James Appathurai told Itar-Tass earlier that NATO regrets very much the suspension of the CFE effect, because regards this treaty a cornerstone of European security.
"The allies consider this treaty to be an important cornerstone of European security," James Appathurai said.
He added that the move was "a disappointing step in the wrong direction".
Appathurai also said an emergency conference may take place in Vienna. The exact date is not known as of yet. He also said Russia's decision to suspend participation in the pact limiting military forces in Europe would be discussed at a session of the NATO Council at the level of ambassadors as well as at a next session of the Russia-NATO Council.
The allies are very concerned by this unilateral decision, the statement stressed. It said NATO put much emphasis on the treaty and urged Russia to solve all problems connected with the treaty through a dialogue.