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Mr Putin and Mr Karamanlis discussed economic cooperation issues in the energy and high-technology sectors and also examined a number of international issues, in particular, the situation in the Balkans and the question of a settlement for Cyprus.

At the beginning of the talks Mr Putin noted that Greece and Russia share very similar views on a great many international issues. This concerns the situation in the Balkans and the question of a settlement for Cyprus.

Mr Putin thanked Greece for its constructive position on developing cooperation between Russia and the European Union. Greece is an important partner for Russia on this issue.

Subjects discussed during the talks included the creation of an ‘energy ring’ with outlets to the energy markets of third countries, Russian gas supplies via Greece to countries in Southern and Western Europe, and the construction of an oil pipeline.

Mr Putin and Mr Karamanlis held their talks at the private Galini Villa, built in the 1970s in the style of a monastery. The residence is well known in Greece and has hosted in its time the former Greek Prime Minister and world-famous personalities such as Salvador Dali, Rudolf Nureyev, Prince Albert of Monaco and former French President Francois Mitterand.