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Earlier in the day, Dmitry Medvedev and Emomali Rahmon participated in a four-party meeting with the presidents of Afghanistan and Pakistan.

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President of Russia Dmitry Medvedev: Mr President, I am very happy to see you here in Sochi. This is our traditional place to meet and talk.

This year, in addition to having a bilateral meeting here, we also had four-party consultations. In my view, this was a very productive initiative, which was suggested earlier by Tajikistan – a suggestion I liked. I should emphasise again that I see these contacts as very useful for regional processes.

Now, we are beginning the bilateral part of your visit. We will address all the issues we have on our agenda: economic, political, and international matters within the context of our regional cooperation.

We live in a complicated region. Today, we discussed the current difficulties with our colleagues, beginning with our joint fight against terrorism and drug trafficking, and ending with joint disaster relief. This year, Pakistan has had some major problems, you also had problems this year, as did Russia – you know what I am referring to. So measures for mutual support and assistance are also issues worth covering.

I would like to once again welcome you. Today, there will be opportunities for talks between just the two of us, as well as with our colleagues who have come here – in essence, all the key ministers that are responsible for cooperation between Russia and Tajikistan. Tomorrow, we will continue our contacts.

Mr Rahmon, welcome to Sochi. I am happy to see you.

President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon: Thank you very much, Mr President. I am genuinely glad for our meeting.

We are satisfied with the development of our relations in all areas. I am certain that today’s meeting will provide an opportunity to discuss what has been done and make plans for the future.

Overall, our trade is steady. In essence, we don’t have any serious unresolved issues. I think that’s exactly the way it should be between strategic partners and allies.

Thank you.

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