OREANDA-NEWS.  On February 11, 2008 Mr Putin and King Abdullah II discussed opportunities for developing trade and economic cooperation. Discussions centred on work together in the military-technical sector in particular. The two leaders also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East.

PRESIDENT VLADIMIR PUTIN: Allow me to wish you a warm welcome to Moscow.

We last met exactly a year ago in Jordan. I remember what a warm welcome I received from you and from your family and colleagues.

Looking at our trade relations over this period, I must say that the figures are still modest in absolute terms, but the volume of trade between our countries has more than doubled in percentage terms. We are also developing our relations in other areas, including in quite sensitive areas such as military-technical cooperation.

I am very glad to have the chance to exchange views with you on the situation in the Middle East.
Welcome!
KING ABDULLAH II: We have warm recollections of your visit to Jordan and we highly value your part in strengthening the relations between our countries.

Your personal involvement has contributed to a dramatic improvement in relations between Jordan and Russia. This has been made possible by the part Russia is playing today in international affairs and by your personal initiatives. This has had a positive impact on developments in the international situation in general and in the Middle East too.