Leaders from France,Germany and Russia are attending a two-day security summit in the northern French sea town of Deauville.

This is the first summit, between the three countries since 2006. German Chancellor Angela Merkel says NATO is seeking cooperation with Russia.

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, said, "We will find possibilities for cooperation. What we want to do is to build confidence and make clear that we are all sitting in one boat when it comes to the real dangers of the 21st century."

The leaders aim to cement improved relations and seek common ground on NATO missile defense plans. While the US and NATO say the plans are aimed at a missile threat from Iran, Moscow is concerned it could also be used to counter Russia's long-range nuclear arsenal. Russia fears the NATO plans could weaken its missile deterrent, leaving it vulnerable.