Yushchenko telephoned Putin to discuss Ukrainian-Russian relations

Victor Yushchenko telephoned Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss a range of issues, presidential press office reported.

First, they discussed yesterday’s establishment of Ukrgaz-Energo, a joint company to supply gas to Ukraine. The Presidents agreed that the states had managed to compromise and none of the two sides had lost.

Then they spoke about preparations to hold the first meeting of the Yushchenko-Putin Commission to settle the issue of the Russian Navy temporarily stationed in Sevastopol in February.

When discussing Russia’s recent ban to import Ukrainian meat and milk products, the presidents agreed to delegate their agrarian ministers to compromise and sign a protocol next week.

Yushchenko and Putin reiterated that Ukraine and Russia were building their economic relations on mutual respect and mutual benefit.

Then they broached the subject of bird flu and agreed to delegate their ministers to coordinate efforts and exchange necessary information.