They discussed pressing issues of Russia’s cooperation with the World Bank and the possibility of promoting it.
They also addressed the Chechen problem. Mr Putin provided exhaustive information to Mr Wolfensohn and expressed satisfaction with the pragmatic and firm stance of the World Bank’s officials, who were not influenced by Russia’s internal political situation in their decisions to grant loans.
They reached an agreement whereby a $100 million loan would be granted to Russia in March for the development of its coal industry and another $350 million would be allocated for social development and economic restructuring.
Speaking on behalf of Russia’s Government, Mr Putin congratulated Mr Wolfensohn on his re-election to the post of president of the World Bank.