As he opened the talks Vladimir Putin noted the intensive business contacts between Russia and the Netherlands. The President of Russia emphasized that since his state visit to the Netherlands their countries' relations have developed very intensively.
Russian and Dutch leaders agreed that relations between the two countries can be characterised as an open partnership.
The Dutch Prime Minister expressed his condolences to Vladimir Putin in connection with the tragedy in the Tula region in which a fire claimed 31 lives.
The talks then continued with both countries' delegations.
Following the talks a Comprehensive Agreement between Gazprom and Gazunie was signed in the presence of the heads of state. The Agreement provides that both companies will participate in the Northern Stream and BBL (Balgzand Bacton Line) pipeline projects.
After the talks Vladimir Putin and Jan Peter Balkenende made press statements.