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Yanukovich says he pleased to be in RF on symbolic day

Commenting on energy cooperation, the Ukrainian leader said he is convinced that everything would be solved in a constructive way

ZAVIDOVO, September 24 (Itar-Tass) — Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich said he is glad to be in Russia on the symbolic day for both countries.

In his meeting with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on Saturday, Yanukovich said, “I accepted your invitation with pleasure because, first of all, on this symbolic day for Russia I’m pleased to be near you.”

The Ukrainian president thanked his Russian colleague for hospitality and the informal meeting. “I can say this meeting is very symbolic for me. I want to thank you for a chance to meet in this historical place. As a rule, familiars meet here and it’s very pleasant for me,” he said.

According to Yanukovich, “we have many problems to discuss. For certain, there is no need to delay the session of the interstate commission. I want you to agree on the date before the Regional Economic Forum, due to take place in Donestk, in order to find a chance and hold our interstate commission.”

Commenting on energy cooperation, the Ukrainian leader said he is convinced that everything would be solved in a constructive way. “Due to the fact that we succeeded in obtaining certain results in the 18 months – we managed to stabilise trade and economic relations – I’m sure that we’ll solve our problems in a constructive way,” Yanukovich stressed.

“It’s natural there is sense to talk about more difficult issues, including energy cooperation, border problems and our plan of action that we’ve agreed with you some time ago,” Medvedev said.

The Russian president informed his Ukrainian colleague about the latest events in Russia. “Esteemed Viktor Fyodorovich! I warmly welcome you in the Moscow region. The weather is good. We’ve just completed the congress, determined the party’s goals and nominated future political figures for the upcoming election campaigns. Of course, it is very important for the Russian Federation due to the fact that we are friends and we must have regular contacts, and take decisions. For certain, it has any significance for Ukraine,” the Russian leader said.

In addition, he called for discussing the key issues of Russian-Ukrainian relations and prospects for cooperation, including a session of the interstate commission. In his words, the commission should be convened. But it is necessary “to fill it with concrete substance”. “Here an atmosphere is good to discuss the most difficult issues,” he said.

Journalists could hear brief opening remarks when Medvedev and Yanukovich expressed readiness to discuss difficult issues, including in the energy sector. Then the talks continue without the press. Twenty minutes later Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin joined the presidents of both countries.

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