President of Russia Dmitry Medvedev: You and I meet often, and that is good. It means that we can always verify our standings on a wide range of issues.
It was not too long ago that the G20 summit took place. I told you just a few things about it on the telephone, but I think it would be useful to discuss summit results, because they are relevant to the economies of nearly every country in the world, including the Russian and Belarus economies, especially since the two are very closely tied. On our bilateral agenda, there are always issues for discussion, and we have such discussions on a regular basis. I’ll say once again that I think this leads to direct, practical benefits.
I am glad to see you. Welcome.
President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko: Thank you. First of all, I would like to once again note your punctuality. You and I agreed to discuss a number of questions, and so we are meeting. I am very grateful to you for finding the time to meet, despite the fact that you have a full schedule, and that we did not have an opportunity to plan this meeting well in advance.
Indeed, I would like to say that our meetings have the effect of making our staff more active, or as you put it, keeping it tuned, so that in the run-up to our meetings many seemingly insurmountable issues are resolved. That is why such meetings are of great use for both Russia and Belarus.
I am grateful that you are able to find the time for our frequent meetings. We are, first and foremost, close as people, and it would be a shame not to meet if there is a chance for that. But since we are public figures (the fact not to be forgotten), our meetings are seen by the people as political steps. I think our meetings are to the benefit of everyone.
Dmitry Medvedev: I agree with that.