The previous meeting in this format took place in Brussels on February 24, 2011.

During the plenary meeting the Government and the European Commission will review bilateral relations, laying particular emphasis on energy, trade, industry, transport, science and education. The agenda also includes the easing of visa procedures, and cooperation in promoting freedom, security and justice and the implementation of the partnership for a modernisation joint initiative.

On March 21, Dmitry Medvedev and José Barroso will take part in the conference on opportunities for Russia-EU cooperation that is being organised by the Russian International Affairs Council.