Pm Mikhail Kasyanov Points To Russia Gaining Advantage In Russia-wto Negotiations

Over the past months, Moscow has gained advantage in its negotiations with the WTO /World Trade Organisation/ on Russia's membership in this organisation. Russian prime minister Mikhail Kasyanov said as much at the 15th session of the consultative council on foreign investment in Russia. He noted that joining the WTO was extremely important for a better investment climate in Russia. According to the head of the cabinet, "we are currently approaching the final stage of the talks and hope for a constructive dialogue". Mikhail Kasyanov recalled that the government had already adopted a plan of measures to bring the Russian legislation in line with the WTO standards. By the end of the year, the government will submit the bulk of the amendments on the issue to the State Duma.