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President Vladimir Putin thanked government members for the positive results of the energy talks with their Belarusian partners, saying that mutually acceptable compromises had been found.

Putin noted that direct and indirect Russian support to Belarus would be curtailed in 2007, but would remain substantial for a long time.

It will amount to $5.8 billion this year, which, according to the Russian Finance Ministry, is equal to 41% of the Belarusian budget.

The president said this constituted Russia’s payment for a smooth and friendly way of converting to market relations, as well as its assistance to the Belarusian people.