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During their conversation, Mr Putin and Mr Vedrine discussed topical aspects of bilateral relations and prospects for expanding Russian-EU cooperation. They underlined the special nature of the Russian-French partnership and expressed hope that it would continue to develop.
Mr Putin told Mr Vedrine about the situation in the North Caucasus, in particular Chechnya, and about measures that had been taken to restore normal life in the republic.
It was stressed at the meeting that even if Russia could not rely on the French government’s support, it could expect its understanding of the situation in the region. Mr Putin said that Russia was fighting international terrorism, and not only in its own interests: Tomorrow, international terrorism could choose any other region for attack.
Mr Vedrine gave Mr Putin a message from French President Jacques Chirac and invited the Russian president to visit France. The timeframe for his official visit will be determined after the presidential election in Russia.
February 4, 2000, The Kremlin, Moscow