OREANDA-NEWS. April 17, 2008. At the Libyan leader's initiative the programme for the President of Russia's visit was modified. Muammar Gaddafi invited Mr Putin to breakfast at his home. Over a working breakfast they discussed the development of their bilateral relations and a number of international issues. Breakfast talks were held in a one-on-one setting.

Later on a series of documents, including a number of intergovernmental and commercial agreements, were signed in the presence of the two heads of state. In particular, these documents include a Political Declaration on Strengthening Friendship and Cooperation between Russia and Libya and a Statement of Intent Concerning the Development of Multisectoral Cooperation between Russia and Libya, as well as a number of intergovernmental agreements on the promotion and mutual protection of investments, on trade, economics and finance, some of which make reference to issues concerning military-technical cooperation. Another intergovernmental agreement relates to the protection of classified information.

The countries also signed a contract for the construction of the Sirt-Benghazi railway line and a memorandum on cooperation between Gazprom and Libya's National Oil and Gas Company.

The President of Russia reiterated his invitation to President Muammar Gaddafi to visit Russia.

After the end of negotiations, Vladimir Putin answered journalists' questions. Summing up the results of his visit, the Russian head of state expressed his satisfaction. The agreements reached are not only important for creating business for Russian defense companies and increasing Libya’s defensive capabilities, but also as a way to meet challenges in the civil sphere, the President said.

The Russian leader also considers that Russia and Libya are able to reach a new level of cooperation in the political sphere. Vladimir Putin noted that in 2008-2009 Libya will be a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and that this creates new opportunities to work together with Libyan partners on major international issues, including those related to the development of the United Nations itself.

On the way to the airport, Vladimir Putin laid a wreath at the memorial to heroes of the battle of Al-Hani and flowers on the tomb of Muammar Gaddafi's father.