Dialogue with Russia crucial as West shuns it — retired French officer

MOSCOW, June 4. /TASS/. Participation in last week’s 13th International Meeting of High Security Representatives in Moscow was motivated by the importance of maintaining dialogue and mutual exchange of views, even of a private nature, said retired French colonel Jacques Hogarde.

"I was invited to take part in this conference. I proceed from the principle that it is always better to use opportunities to get to know each other and talk. I thought this topic was very relevant, so I didn't hesitate a minute," Hogard, who is also a veteran of the French Foreign Legion, told TASS.

He expressed regret that "on the French side, and indeed in the West, they reject such a dialogue, such an opportunity to exchange views. It only half surprises me. This is why I felt completely free to accept the invitation and come. It seemed important to me."

"I believe that it is necessary to maintain contacts of any kind, even if they are modest and more or less private, because I do not represent anyone except myself, essentially, in all this, but I think it is important," he concluded.