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Preparations for the Russia-European Union summit in Moscow on May 10 were the main subject of discussion.

The meeting resulted in steps being taken to bring the respective positions of Russia and the EU closer together on some of the most complex issues facing the two sides.

Specialists from both sides are currently completing a negotiation process that has lasted many months on drawing up a roadmap for the four common spaces that Russia and the EU will build together.

The two sides still have to settle some issues relating to readmission, simplification of visa procedures and certain aspects of work regarding the common economic space.

Additional agreements on simplification of visa procedures are expected to be reached, however, by May 10. Mr Putin and Mr Barroso discussed the visa simplification issues in the context of an agreement on readmission.

Another item on the agenda was the bilateral agreement on partnership and cooperation and freight transit through Kaliningrad Oblast, which expires in 2007.

Mr Putin and Mr Barroso also discussed the difficulties that have emerged in adopting the European Union Constitution. The Russian side was particularly interested to hear Mr Barroso’s views on the EU Constitution ratification process.

Other items of discussion included respecting common standards for human rights and liberties, including the rights of national minorities in EU member states. Russia is particularly concerned about the situation with the Russian-speaking minorities in certain EU member states.

Mr Putin and Mr Barroso also discussed Russia’s upcoming presidency of the G-8.

This is Mr Barroso’s first visit to Russia as head of the European Commission.