The Russian President informed Mr Zemin about the results of the recent Russian-American summit. The Chinese President praised the agreements that had been reached during the summit and pointed out the importance of the parties’ intentions to reduce stockpiles of nuclear weapons. The Chinese President stressed that such decisions met not only the interests of Russia and the US, but also the whole international community.
Mr Putin and Mr Zemin again stated common Russia’s and China’s views on the ABM Treaty.
The two leaders attached great importance to bilateral cooperation in combating international terrorism. They emphasised the role of the UN in this process and spoke for increasing its role in the settlement of the situation in Afghanistan. They praised the fact that the UN’s central role in Afghanistan was widely supported.
The Russian and Chinese Presidents emphasised the importance of regular meetings and contacts as a sign of mutual trust.