The first summit between the European Union and Russia since enlargement began in Moscow today.
The Taoiseach, as President of the European Council; the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Cowen; and the President of the European Commission, Mr Romano Prodi, are attending.
Speaking at the outset of the meeting, Mr Ahern said EU enlargement would "bring the EU and Russia closer together, as it brings us new opportunities for co-operation. The EU-Russia relationship is key to ensuring peace and security in Europe".
On the situation in Chechnya, Mr Aherm repeated the EU's "very strong condemnation" of the bomb attack, which killed the province's resident in Grozny May 9th.
"Terrorist violence of this kind has no place in any democratic society. We again extend our condolences to the families of the victims of this terrible act," Mr Ahern added.
International issues, including Iraq, the Middle East peace process and the Kyoto Treaty, will be discussed over lunch.
"The summit will be an opportunity to confirm to our largest partner in Europe that enlargement will not create new dividing lines on this continent", Mr Ahern said last night.