"Inter-regional cooperation is a major component of Russian-Canadian relations," said Mr Zubkov. "We support Quebec's efforts to intensify regional relations with Moscow and St Petersburg... Implementation of joint projects by Russian and Canadian regions will facilitate diversification of bilateral relations."
Mr Zubkov and Mr Charest discussed current issues regarding Russian and Canadian cooperation in trade, the economy, agriculture, the energy industry, mechanical engineering, education and culture. They discussed in particular detail the participation of Canadian, especially Quebec, companies in Sochi Olympic projects.
"I also consider our Olympic cooperation important, including the construction of the transport infrastructure for the 2014 Winter Olympics," said Mr Zubkov.
"The Russian-Canadian Economic Commission, which I co-chair together with Stockwell Day, the Canadian Minister of International Trade, is monitoring all these issues," he added.