"We have discussed bilateral relations in economic, social and cultural spheres and settlement of international conflicts," Mr. Barnier reported.
He pointed out the "importance of Russian-French join actions on the Iraqi settlement".
According to him, Moscow and Paris cooperated within the UN Security Council and adopted resolution 1546. Michel Barnier expressed hope that the new Iraqi government would pursue democratic policy and preserve Iraq's sovereignty.
The French Foreign Minister also focused on Russian-French cooperation as international intermediaries on the Mideastern settlement.
On his part, Sergei Lavrov thanked the French side for its position on the solution of Russia-EU problems and the possibility to meet with French President Jacques Chirac.
The talks between the Russian Foreign Minister and French leader lasted longer than it had been planned and after the meeting Jacques Chirac saw Sergei Lavrov off in the presence of guards of honor. This is due to a special nature of Russian-French relations, a source in the presidential staff told RIA Novosti.
