This was the statement made by Dmitry Medvedev following talks at the Kremlin with President of Italy Giorgio Napolitano.
The two leaders exchanged views on a wide range of European and international issues. Mr Medvedev noted that the two countries share similar approaches with regard to ensuring a stable and democratic world order, economic progress in the interests of all countries, and the search for suitable responses to the challenges taking shape in the world.
The President said that Italy has a very constructive approach to developing the whole spectrum of relations between Russia and the European Union and that he hopes that the relevant documents will be drafted and work will soon continue on the foundation of the new Russia-European Union basic agreement.
The two sides also exchanged views on general European security issues. The Presidents discussed Russia’s proposal to convoke a pan-European summit to start the process of drafting a legally binding treaty on European security.
In the area of economic relations, the two sides emphasised the importance of bilateral cooperation on price stabilisation and energy security. The two leaders noted the rapid development of investment cooperation.