"This was less a summit to formalise an agreement on nuclear arms reduction and more a photo opportunity for the two men who control the largest nuclear arsenals in the world - and still will do after their barbecue in Texas", said CND Chair Carol Naughton.

The relatively stable relationship between the old adversaries is good news, particularly as the Bush Presidency initially threatened to undermine it, and any reduction in nuclear weaponry is to be welcomed. But does a commitment by one side to reduce its total inventory by 5,000 warheads mean nuclear disarmament is just around the corner?

We think not.

'The War on Terrorism' has provided the opportunity to redefine a 'New Strategic Relationship' between Russia and the United States.

Russian political and intelligence assistance has enabled the US to claim a broad coalition for the military strikes on Afghanistan while Russia has been able to legitimise its war in Chechnya.

Russia has indicated a willingness to turn a blind eye to further developments on the missile defence front, at least for the time being, in return for the seeming breakthrough on the warhead reduction front - not forgetting that Russia has found it difficult to maintain its existing arsenal.

What is required at this juncture, especially after 11th September terrorist atrocities, is both a recognition that nuclear weapons do not bring security and that existing international agreements must be adhered to.

Both nations have committed themselves to progressively implement a programme which will result in a nuclear weapons-free world - sooner rather than later.