The two countries’ leaders exchanged opinions on important bilateral and international issues. In particular, they discussed topical aspects of Russia’s partnership with the European Union and East-West relations as a whole.
After the meeting, Vladimir and Lyudmila Putin, Gerhard Schroeder and his wife Doris Schroeder-Koepf took a tour of the Kremlin and talked to Muscovites and visitors on Red Square.
While walking around Moscow’s central square, Mr Putin gave journalists a detailed account of his talks with Mr Schroeder. As he answered their questions, the President dispelled rumours that nuclear missiles would be deployed in the Kaliningrad Region.
Afterwards, the Putins and the Schroeders went to the Bolshoi Theatre to see the ballet Giselle.
Late at night, the two couples attended a Christmas service celebrated by Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Alexy II at the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour.