Mr Putin conveyed his thanks through Mr Fischer to Russia’s Austrian colleagues for the fair and worthy fashion in which they competed for the right to host the 2014 Winter Olympics, and said he hoped that the two countries would be able to cooperate, given Austria’s great experience in organising major sports events.
Mr Fischer said the decision was the result of a ‘real sports contest’ and should be accepted with sporting spirit. He said that Austria is happy for Russia and passed on his congratulations and best wishes.
The two leaders also discussed current international issues.
The telephone conversation took place at Russia’s initiative.