Russia signs historic accord with NATO

Nato has declared Russia a limited partner in the Western alliance, embracing its former Cold War enemy as an ally in the battle against modern-day threats like terrorism.

‘‘Two former foes are now joined as partners, overcoming 50 years of division and a decade of uncertainty,’’ US President George W. Bush said as leaders of Nato’s 19 member-nations gathered with Russia yesterday to form the Nato-Russia Council.