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The two presidents exchanged their best wishes for the New Year and wished the peoples of Russia and Finland happiness and prosperity.

As is customary, the two leaders discussed the outgoing year’s results.

Both sides noted that 2009 was a year of very intensive political dialogue that gave a big boost to developing Russian-Finnish relations in all different areas.

One of the year’s most memorable events was the joint celebration of the 200th anniversary of Finnish autonomy within the Russian Empire. It was noted, in particular, that the events went very well and showed great respect for the two peoples’ historic heritage and served the interests of developing relations between Russia and Finland today.

Growing relations in the trade and economic sectors, including on the major European gas pipeline project Nord Stream, also received a very positive assessment.

Mr Medvedev and Ms Halonen also discussed contacts planned for 2010, which will see the marking of the 90th anniversary of diplomatic relations, and promises to be just as rich in bilateral events.