Q.: What significance does Moscow attach to Mikhail Kasyanov's visit to Romania, which is due March 27-29?

A.: The visit will be an important step toward building up political dialogue between Russia and Romania and intensifying mutually beneficial bilateral co-operation. Upcoming meetings will allow to look into implementation of the available bilateral agreements and outline prospects for further contacts in various areas.

Russia is eager to develop dialogue with Romania on the basis of pragmatism and respect for each other's interests.

Russia is pleased with the fact that the work to agree on the Treaty on Friendly Relations and Co-operation between the Russian Federation and Romania has been completed. The Treaty will strengthen the legal framework and offer new co-operation prospects.

The Russian side is expected to set forth its principled approach to the problem of ensuring global security, strategic stability, countering international terrorism and extremism, strengthening the United Nations' role in international affairs, heightening the authority of the UN Security Council, which bears main responsibility for ensuring peace, security and the rule of law throughout the world.

Q.: How important are trade and other economic contacts in the current Russo-Romanian relations?

A.: Economic problems will dominate forthcoming talks between Mr Kasyanov, President Ion Illiescu and Prime Minister Adrian Nastase of the host country. Russia is Romania's fifth largest trade partner. As of 2003, the two countries' mutual commodity turnover made up 1.32 billion dollars going up by 4.73% against 2002, with the trade balance being steadily in favour of Russia.

Russia is pleased with Romania's resolve to step up bilateral trade and business contacts, and intensify co-operation at the regional level.

Russia makes it a point that Russian investors should enjoy a favourable business climate and equal opportunities on the Romanian market.