Transcript of the beginning of the meeting:
Vladimir Putin: Mr President, dear colleagues and friends, I'm very glad to see you in the Russian Government House. Russia and the Republic of South Africa have had very durable, positive ties since the apartheid era. We know that we have many friends in your country. I'd like to assure you that there are very many people in Russia who not only know the Republic of South Africa but hold it in high regard.
Now the question is how we can transform all this into establishing trade and economic ties on a higher level. Regrettably, their scale is still insignificant, but we have great opportunities in metallurgy, the power industry and many other industries. This is why we are very happy to see you here. We hope that your visit will create momentum for the development of bilateral relations. Welcome to Moscow!
Jacob Zuma (as translated): Thank you, Mr Prime Minister, for the warm reception that was accorded to me and members of my delegation in Russia. Before we discuss the issues of our bilateral agenda, I'd like to use this opportunity to convey my sincerest condolences and sympathy for the victims of these fires that are still raging in Russia on an unprecedented scale. We share the pain of the Russian people. Please, accept our sincerest condolences.