Transcript of the beginning of the meeting:

Vladimir Putin: Ms Greceanii, firstly I would like to say that I am very glad we have had the opportunity to meet today.

I would like once again to reaffirm Russia's support, the Russian Government's support for the lawful Government of Moldova, and for the President of Moldova. We are very glad that the period of internal political tension has passed. In our opinion the Moldovan authorities acted very rationally, reacting calmly even to acts of hooliganism. We expect this process will be over soon. It is even more vital, given the conditions of the global financial and economic crisis, that political stability guarantees the resolution of difficult economic and social tasks.

Our relationship is developing quite well in these areas; I would even say it is good. Of course, the crisis is reflected in the volume of our trade turnover, and in the implementation of our long term programmes. But overall there are no doubts about their future implementation. We fully expect that our relationship will continue to develop on these lines in the future.

Zinaida Greceanii: Thank you, Mr Putin.

I would also like the express my gratitude to you for that constant support that Moldova receives, in both economic and political affairs. Of course, Moldova's economic situation is difficult, as it probably is in all countries. In addition, it is worsening, in the first case regarding political instability. Moldova was unprepared for the situation that developed in the post-election period, after April 5. But the support we received from all those countries that understood the situation, meant a great deal to Moldova. Thank you once more. It was expressed very accurately in the declaration by the Russian Foreign Ministry.

I also wanted to say thank you for the help that the Russian Federation offered in the form of fuel to top up our reserves, which we used up last winter during the energy crisis. Our people really appreciate it. These resources will be used, in part, to support agriculture, which is very important to us.

And, indeed you are correct in remarking on our economic cooperation. It is very important for us that we continue our work in that area. I think our ministers have even more to talk about now.

Supplies of fresh fruit and vegetables are beginning, and our relationship regarding the export of wine from Moldova is improving. That is good. The proposal made regarding exports, including the "single window system" system, is being acted on; we have taken all necessary steps. I think that we can talk through the questions that remain in a way that serves to develop them further.