OREANDA-NEWS. June 07, 2010. Dmitry Medvedev and Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed the issues of European security and cooperation between Russia and European Union.

The two leaders particularly addressed the prospects for implementing the Partnership for Modernisation initiative and introducing visa-free travel between Russia and the EU member-states.

Other subjects on the agenda included countering global economic crisis, reforming international financial institutions and preparing for the forthcoming G8 and G20 summits in Canada.

The parties exchanged views on such regional problems as Iran’s nuclear programme, peace process in Afghanistan and the Middle East settlement.

Dmitry Medvedev and Angela Merkel also focused on possibilities for expanding bilateral trade and economic cooperation and strengthening cultural, educational and humanitarian contacts.

The talks culminated in a memorandum on intended establishment of a ministerial EU-Russia Committee on Security and Foreign Affairs, signed by the President of Russia and the Federal Chancellor of Germany.

Following the summit, Dmitry Medvedev and Angela Merkel gave a joint news conference.