The presidents discussed relevant issues related to Russian-Ukrainian cooperation, primarily economic ties, and some international issues at the Rus country residence in Zavidovo (Tver Region).
First Vladimir Putin congratulated Leonid Kuchma on his birthday noting that the Russian people appreciated the Ukrainian President’s contribution to the onward development of versatile bilateral cooperation.
The Russian President expressed certainty that the accumulated positive potential of the two countries’ cooperation would create a solid basis for long-term strategic partnership. He sincerely thanked the Ukrainian leader for his decision to spend his birthday in Russia.
Later Mr Putin invited Mr Kuchma to the Shinok restaurant in downtown Moscow. The presidents’ wives, Lyudmila Putina and Lyudmila Kuchma, were also present at the dinner.