(VOVworld) - Russia considers cooperation with the Asia-Pacific Rim as its key priority. Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev told regional trade representatives on Wednesday that cooperation with the Asia Pacific region is now their top priority.

Dmitry Medvedev participates in the meeting of Russian trade representative offices abroad (Photo: RIA Novosti)

Moscow will create a breakthrough in its economic relations with the Asia-Pacific as the relations between Russia and the West is setting sour. Medvedev said Russia needs to be better aware of its opportunities and strengths to lure Asian investors.

Regarding strained relations between Russia and the EU against the backdrop of the Ukrainian crisis, Prime Minister Medvedev said Moscow is likely to apply protective measures in response to agreements between the EU and Ukraine and Moldova. He added Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan are ready to establish more free trade areas with Latin American and African countries.