"The countries signed an agreement on friendship and cooperation in 2003. moreover, bilateral trade grew by more than 15% in 2004," the Russian leader noted.
Mr. Basescu hopes that the agreement will become a basis for the development of bilateral political and economic relations. He is aware of Russia's interests in the region. "I hope our cooperation will be successful," he said.
The Romanian President said it was an honor for him to be invited to Russia. He hopes to become one of Vladimir Putin's European friends so that they could call each other anytime.
Mr. Putin also hopes for friendly private and business relations with the Romanian counterpart to promote links between the two countries and nations.
Speaking about bilateral relations, Traian Basescu said, "We study history to look into the future. The past is both reality and history".
"We need the realia of the future," he emphasized.
