In their discussion Mr Putin and Mr Bush focused on Iraq. Ahead of a speech by US Secretary of State Colin Powell at a meeting of the UN Security Council on February 5, President Bush recounted American assessments of Baghdad’s disarmament moves. Mr Putin, in turn, stressed the key role of international inspectors in determining further steps concerning Iraq.
The two leaders expressed support for continuing close cooperation on Iraq at the UN Security Council, alongside with other countries.
They also discussed some pressing aspects of bilateral relations.