Blair meets Russian President at UK summit

PM meets Russian President at UK summit

Tony Blair held talks in London today with Vladimir Putin as part of the European Presidency programme.

Mr Blair told journalists the discussions had been 'good and constructive' and said that the relationship between Europe and Russia was 'immensely important'.

They discussed the so-called 'four common spaces' between the two countries - the economy, freedom and justice, external security, as well as culture and education.

Other items on the agenda included energy and climate change.

The PM, sat alongside Mr Putin and President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso, said he wanted to take the relationship with Russia to 'a new, more intense and strengthened level.'

A transcript of the press conference will be available here later.

Bilateral discussions between Mr Blair and Mr Putin will take place tomorrow. Russia takes over the G8 Presidency from the UK next year.

President Putin will also be presenting awards to British submariners who helped with the recent rescue of a Russian submarine.

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