Two of the most powerful countries in the world and the arch nemeses in the cold war era, the United States of America and Russia (formerly, Soviet Union) are now on their way towards the ratification of a landmark agreement, where both the countries are planning to take a step forward towards nuclear arms reduction. Diplomats from both the countries have been meeting periodically to achieve this goal and also to renew and modify the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) the foundation of which was laid down in the year 1991.

Both superpowers had suffered from intense military and political differences during the administration of the former U.S President, George W. Bush, leading to widespread discontentment between both countries. However, today’s talks, the seventh in a long row of diplomatic tussle, is seen as a major step towards mutual agreement and the foundations of a new found friendship. Even though the details of the negotiations are a closely guarded secret, yet sources from within the Russian government suggest that, the talks are going in a positive direction. However, the talks in the recent months had strained, with America’s decision to go through with the proposed ballistic missile defense system in Europe.

In an interview, Russian President, Dmitry Medvedev said,

“We have given our negotiators the task of finishing a deal in time. I think the chances are really not bad.”

Furthermore, President Medvedev expressed his joy and appreciation for U.S President Barrack Obama, for taking the initiative far more seriously than the previous administration. However, he also stressed on the fact that, even with relative success achieved during the talks, both countries need to exercise patience and wisdom, to reach a gratifying conclusion.

Via Space War.