When discussing the situation in Iraq, Mr Putin and Mr Chirac reiterated the similarity of the Russian and French view that political and diplomatic means of solving the Iraqi problem should be given priority.
The two leaders exchanged opinions on the efforts being made in this direction. Mr Putin and Mr Chirac called for continued cooperation and coordination of efforts within the UN Security Council.
As an example of broad international support for a peaceful solution to the Iraqi problem, they pointed with satisfaction to the unanimous opinion of participants of the 13th Conference of Heads of State and Government of the Nonaligned Movement, which opened today in Malaysia.