Russia and EU resume negotiations

EU leaders say they have to address their issues with Russia

The EU and Russia have restarted talks on a new partnership agreement, after they were frozen by the EU in the wake of August's conflict in Georgia.

The decision to resume talks was made last month, despite the opposition of Lithuania, which called it a "mistake".

The EU insists it will not be "business as usual" with Russia, but that the two sides must discuss vital issues like like energy, climate change and trade.

Talks on a new agreement began this year after a delay of about 18 months.

The EU and Russia have been seeking a replacement for a previous agreement, which has expired.

Although trade between Russia and EU states has boomed in recent years, the political relationship has become increasingly strained, over issues such as human rights and energy supplies.