At the meeting, general political situation in the world, many aspects of international relations, and social issues were discussed. The discussion also concerned the situation in the Balkans, Mr Putin’s meeting of the day before with Pope John Paul II, and economic issues, in particular, investment protection.
Not only expatriate companies are entitled to attractive investment terms in Russia, Mr Putin said. On the contrary, all prospect investors should be given the same guaranties. Russia has established seven federal districts to unify its legal environment, and is streamlining laws that guarantee proprietary rights.
With regard to the situation in the Balkans, Mr Putin said that the isolation of Belgrade was counterproductive and could not promote settlement in former Yugoslavia.