Κaramanlis, Putin focus on energy relations; EU-Russia ties discussed

[Ellinas]

Expanding energy cooperation between Russia and Greece dominated talks here on Monday between visiting Greek Premier Costas Karamanlis and Russian President Vladimir Putin, as the two leaders' meeting also reportedly touched on the thorny Kosovo issue.

In statements after the more than one-hour meeting, both leaders said the expansion of already burgeoning energy cooperation between the two countries substantially benefits Europe's energy sufficiency and security, with particular mention to a finalised three-nation pact (Russia, Bulgaria and Greece) to construct the Burgas-Alexandroupolis oil pipeline and proposals for the "Southstream" natgas pipeline linking Russian gas reserves with SE Europe.

Putin, in fact, said a protocol signed earlier in the day in Moscow -- establishing an international company by the three sides to build the Burgas-Alexandroupolis line -- is the next-to-last step for constructing the pipeline.

Military cooperation was also discussed, with Karamanlis directly referring to the purchase of 420 Russian-made armoured vehicles, whereas Putin said there is "no restriction" on the development of bilateral defence cooperation with Greece, including an interest to proceed with joint weapons production on Russian soil.

Int'l developments

In response to a press question regarding ostensible "criticism" of close Greece-Russia ties by EU civil servants -- the reporter's words -- Putin merely noted that domestic issues have dominated his attention of late, with no time to "deal with the statements of respectable functionaries of Brussels."

Moreover, he said EU-Russia relations are moving along "not so badly", while the Russian leader expressed hope that a long-term agreement with the Union will soon be concluded.

Beyond Moscow's ties with the Union, Putin said he discussed the Kosovo issue and the Cyprus problem with the Greek leader, underlining that their views were similar.

As per Greek-Russian relations, in particular, Putin said they are not restricted to merely the energy sector, but involve several other fields, adding that "certain (parties) don't delve deeply enough into the nature of this relationship".

On his part, Karamanlis reminded that Greece is a European nation that operates within the framework of the European Union, adding however, "that our bilateral relations revolve on the basis of national interests".

Asked about the Southstream project, Karamanlis said experts on both sides are examining its feasibility prospects, with predictions impossible at present.

Turning to other matters, the Greek premier said Athens was ready to assist the Sochi 2014 Winter Games organisers and preparations, with Greece-based contractors also eager to win Olympics-related projects.

Along those lines, he proposed that the Olympic year 2014 be declared "Year of Russia" in Greece, concurrently, "Year of Greece" in Russia, an idea that was accepted by the Russian side.

In a reference to the ongoing year-long series of events showcasing the Russian language in the country, Karamanlis said a promise he made to the Russian leader in 2004, namely, the establishment of a Slavic studies department at the University of Athens, is nearing fulfillment.

"In fact, as of the next academic year, a pilot programme for the teaching of the Russian language will begin in certain (Greek) secondary schools," Karamanlis stressed.

ANA

[Napalm]

Beyond Moscow's ties with the Union, Putin said he discussed the Kosovo issue and the Cyprus problem with the Greek leader, underlining that their views were similar.

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