Prime Minister Vladimir Putin meets with Mongolian President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj
At the meeting, Vladimir Putin noted that trade between Russia and Mongolia grew by 42% in 2010, while the first quarter of 2011 saw a 50% increase. “We must maintain these growth rates,” the prime minister said.
Transcript of the beginning of the meeting:
Vladimir Putin: Mr President, colleagues, welcome to Moscow. Can we speak without an interpreter?
Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj: Yes, I think so.
Vladimir Putin: Good. Our countries will mark many notable anniversaries this year.
Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj: Yes.
Vladimir Putin: I believe this will create a good atmosphere for our partnership. But first, I would like to mention that trade between our countries increased by 42% in 2010, and the first quarter of this year saw a 50% increase compared to the same period last year. We must maintain these growth rates.
We are certain that your visit will provide an additional impetus to Russian-Mongolian relations. We have diversified relations, and they are developing in a wide range of fields. Today, at our official but friendly meeting, we will discuss all issues. I know that you have had a very constructive meeting with President Medvedev. You have a busy schedule, with upcoming visits to Elista and St Petersburg. We are very glad to see you. Welcome.
Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj: Thank you. Mr Putin, we are very glad to meet with you again. We have always appreciated our neighbourly relations. Indeed, this year will see a number of anniversaries, including the 100th anniversary of the restoration of Mongolia’s independence and the 90th anniversary of the establishments of diplomatic relations between our countries.
Once again, I would like to express our gratitude to you for your attention and prompt resolution of issues of bilateral cooperation, and we would like to discuss a number of important issues here with you.
One such important issue has to do with oil. As you know, Russian oil products almost entirely meet our needs. In the past few months, we have experienced serious problems with supplies of crude oil. This has delayed agricultural work and disrupted a number of production facilities and public transport. In a few days, our energy minister will arrive in Russia for a visit, and he requests a meeting with your deputy, Igor Sechin. I believe they will settle the issue at the meeting. This is the first issue I would like to discuss with you today.
Vladimir Putin: Good. I suggest we conduct our discussion as follows…
