The head of the Russian state stated: "I am hopeful that we will be able to discuss today and tomorrow all bilateral issues of interest for Austria and Russia, international problems, to consider cooperation between Russia and the European Union." He added: "We seriously rely on Austrian support in the context of establishment of European relations".
Putin pointed out that the Russian-Austrian dialogue "was developing very actively" and "there were practically no problems" in their bilateral relations. The Russian President also stressed that in the last year the trade turnover between the two countries grew by 25%.
The head of the Russian state thanked his Austrian counterpart for the time found to visit Russia.
The Russian President stated: "We planned to have a meeting long time ago, back in summer last year when you were planning to come to Moscow with the Vienna Symphonic Orchestra" and added that unfortunately the idea did not fall through.
Vladimir Putin stated: "We are glad to welcome you in Russia."
