Lavrov Criticizes U.S. Unilateralism

[CHIMO]

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Saturday harshly criticized what he called Washington's unilateral foreign policy, and said Moscow intended to counterbalance it with its increasing global clout.

The comments were the latest expression of irritation from Moscow over the United States' actions, including plans to base parts of its missile defense system in former Soviet satellite states, its handling of the Iranian nuclear problem, the war in Iraq and other issues.

Lavrov said the United States was still uncomfortable with the idea that there could be more than one superpower in the world.

"I don't understand why multipolarity must be perceived as a confrontational approach," he told members of the Council on Foreign and Defense Policy, a group of politicians, officials, experts and business leaders who meet regularly to discuss foreign policy matters.

http://www.themoscowtimes.com/stories/2007/03/19/019.html

Lavrov speaking as council member Irina Khakamada and presidential aide Sergei Prikhodko listen on Saturday.