I am very glad that we have managed to realize the agreement which was reached by us at Kananaskis. I hope that it is not very hot here.

Mr. President, you know that very many people live in Russia who love France. They treat you with great respect and received with concern news of an attempt having been made on your life. Thank God everything ended well. This once again confirms how dangerous pro-fascist forces, rightwing forces are.

You, Mr. President, and I have for discussion an extensive range of questions of a positive character. The role of France in world politics is traditionally very high. I am confident that after the internal political events, after the strengthening of power structures in France, this role will extraordinarily grow.

We have very many matters for cooperation. These are in the first place bilateral ties, and I am very pleased to note that the idea which in your time you proposed is being put into practice. I mean the bilateral Council for Security under the chairmanship of the ministers of foreign affairs and with the participation of the defense ministers.

The position of France is very important for us in our cooperation with the European Union. I would like to hear your opinion and vision of a new security structure in the world and in Europe. And, of course, we will discuss such burning issues as the Balkans, the Middle East and the struggle against terrorism. By the way, I just two hours ago spoke to Prime Minister Sharon, he asked me to convey to you his most cordial greetings.

On bilateral economic ties: they are developing positively and trade is on the increase. But for all that, in comparison with some of our other partners, it still remains not high. At the same time there are very positive things. France has expanded the number of Russian banks whose guarantees are to be recognized in foreign economic transactions and has assigned Russia a more acceptable risk level designation.

In my opinion, relations are developing quite well in the area of aerospace cooperation, which, as I know, are under your personal control. We are very glad to see you, Mr. President. I expect that these one and a half days will be pleasant to you and pass usefully.


___________________________________________________________
© Publication of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.