Russia's drive for recognition as one of the world's major powers took a long step forward as the EU's French presidency publicly backed President Dmitry Medvedev's call for a new "security architecture" for Europe.

It appears to be back to business as usual for Brussels and Moscow, even if the two sides continue to disagree about the fine print. A senior EU official, speaking on condition of anonymity this week in Brussels, was adamant that the EU-Russia summit did not equal a return to the sides' former relationship.

The EU says partnership talks with Russia will be resumed, despite Lithuania's objections. The talks were suspended following Russia's war with Georgia. However, the day was not a total loss for Vilnius, which succeeded in getting the EU Presidency to restate its commitment to Georgia's territorial integrity.