The world has become safer. Russia's entry into a new partnership with the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato) brings the promise of global peace a step closer.
It is a small but significant step towards mending the divisions of the Cold War. Russia's partnership with its one-time adversary is a reminder of how much the world has changed over the last decade. The old threat of a nuclear war between the West and the then-Soviet Union is now vastly diminished, but new threats have emerged.
The hunt for members of Osama bin Laden's al-Qaeda network is still under way and is unlikely to end soon. But the September 11 terrorist attacks on the United States have brought the world closer. Russia's signing yesterday of the accord with Nato symbolised that change.
The partnership means Russia will now get a voice with Nato on matters of mutual concern, such as counter-terrorism and arms control. Such a forum will be invaluable in tackling many security black-spots.
Russia's borders span Europe and Asia. It has influence in several countries seen as crucial to fighting the threat of terrorism. They include US President George W. Bush's so-called 'axis of evil' nations - Iran, Iraq and North Korea.
Russia last year signed an historic friendship accord with China and is also a member, along with Beijing and four members of the Central Asian republics, of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation.