OREANDA-NEWS. May 20, 2009. Vladimir Putin: Mr Prime Minister, we are very glad to see you in Moscow.

I am very pleased to note that we maintain regular contacts across the board - from working meetings to top political levels. However, this is not the main point. What matters most is that our relations are developing well. This applies to all aspects of our cooperation. The most objective indicator is the growth of trade, which set a record last year.

Needless to say, all of us are now living through economic and financial difficulties. This makes your visit all the more topical. It will allow us to consider what can be done in our routine work and to prioritise major projects without fail. Welcome to Moscow!

Jens Stoltenberg: (as translated): Many thanks. I appreciate this opportunity to meet you again with a view to developing our goodneighbourly relations. We have maintained very close contacts for many years. These continuous contacts, both at the top and at other levels, play an important role in expanding our cooperation.

Norway and Russia are advanced countries in many areas. I am referring to achievements in areas such as the energy industry and in the Arctic region, primarily fishing in which we have achieved major success with a concerted effort.

I must mention that the attitude of all Norwegians toward Russia has become even better after the holding of such a magnificent event as Eurovision last weekend, where we occupied first place.

Vladimir Putin: I would also like to congratulate you with the victory of your young singer at this event.

However, you will have to pump a little gas to host the next one at expected standards.
Jens Stoltenberg: It goes without saying that I cannot promise that the event in Norway will be as spectacular as the one in Moscow, but we will spare no effort to make it a real holiday.

Vladimir Putin: I am sure that everything will be proper as usual.