Transcript of the beginning of the meeting:

Danilo Türk (as translated): Mr Prime Minister, welcome to the Republic of Slovenia. You have clearly laid out many of our issues. I am sure you are even more convinced that Slovenia is a real friend of the Russian Federation. Our friendship has historical roots, and its value has been proven many times over. We have many things to discuss.

These visits always remind me of past meetings. I remember very well the meetings I had during my last visit to Russia – not only in Moscow but in other cities as well.

It is gratifying that the meeting has been very productive and that our governments, our prime ministers and our ambassadors, Ms Ada Slivkik and Mr Doku Zavgayev respectively, have contributed so much to our relations.

This is a good opportunity to discuss a wide range of topics, primarily practical issues. We believe that the European Union, as an integral entity, and the Russian Federation have many historical reasons to cooperate.

Welcome to Slovenia!

Vladimir Putin: Thank you very much, Mr President. First of all, I’d like to say that President Medvedev asked me to send his best regards to you – I met with him yesterday to discuss Russian-Slovenian relations.

We’ve had truly wide-ranging and productive talks with your government, and have signed a series of bilateral agreements today. The main thing is that we have not only restored pre-crisis trade but have also diversified our relationship and continue to nurture it in many ways. We are really happy about this because we have always valued good relations with Slovenia.

We pay special attention to our cooperation in culture and education. Today we signed an agreement to open two cultural centres, in Slovenia and in Moscow, to promote further interaction in many areas. Thank you for your support.