Shrewsbury MP Daniel Kawczynski advises not to 'poke Russian bear' before visiting the country
The United Kingdom must improve relations with Russia rather than continuing to "poke the Russian bear", Daniel Kawczynski has claimed.
The Shrewsbury and Atcham MP said serious international issues could only be resolved if the UK recognised Russia as a "global power".
Mr Kawczynski says that cooperation with the country is vital and has urged the UK Government to pursue a softer stance towards Russia.
The Conservative MP has also warned against further expansions of the EU or NATO, which he says could exacerbate current disputes with the country.
Mr Kawczynski is preparing to visit Russia with the Foreign Affairs Select Committee as part of research for its report into Anglo-Russian relations.
He said: "Whatever the reasons for Britain taking such a hard-line stance on Russia, it is vitally important to recognise that Russia is a global power. In the same way countries such as China must be cooperated with despite ideological variances, so must Russia.
"Europe's eastern neighbour is not going away and any further EU or NATO enlargement will almost certainly infringe on Russia's sphere of influence, further complicating matters. Russia's behaviour recently is absolutely unacceptable, yet cooperation between Russia and Britain is necessary.
"Britain must follow America's lead and attempt to defuse conflicts rather than poke the Russian bear that already feels caged in."
Mr Kawczynski said the scale of Russian influence meant the country could not be ignored.
He said: "Russia is here to stay. As the largest country by area, the sixth largest economy, the ninth largest population and a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, there is simply no denying the power and influence.
"There are many problems plaguing the country, domestically and internationally, including a crippling recession."
waning human rights, and Western scorn.
"However, Russia has also played an integral role in trying to defuse some of the world's hotspots.
"Recognising Russia's position on the global stage is crucial to building a constructive, beneficial relationship with the country."
