Mikhail Kasyanov Speaks At Opening Of Hanover Industrial Fair And Has Brief Meeting With Gerhard Schroeder

The International Industrial Fair, the largest in Europe, was opened on Sunday in Hanover (Germany). Mikhail Kasyanov, Prime Minister of Russia, spoke at the opening ceremony. The RIA Novosti correspondents report that the attendance of the Russian Premier is associated with the participation of 82 Russian manufacturers of high-tech products. According to Mr Kasyanov, Russia's participation in the Hanover fair will make it possible to compare the technological capabilities of Russian high-tech companies with the current world level. Mr Kasyanov remarked that the prospective place of Russia in the global economy depends on the development of industries that require intense R&D works and high technologies. The development of this market sector will allow Russia to become integrated in the European community. Premier Kasyanov noted that the progress of businesses in Russia has become possible due to the stabilization of the political situation and economic growth. It is no coincidence, in his opinion, that this time Days of Russian Economy will open at this largest fair in Europe. "The impressive landing party of Russian businessmen in Hanover not only gives the possibility to show the "bright side" of our products, but also to establish relations between the scientific progress and economic globalization processes," said Mr Kasyanov. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder of Germany, in his turn, stressed that Germany supported economic reforms underway in Russia. Chancellor Schroeder remarked that Russia and Germany were important strategic partners, and development of their relations was of great importance not only for these two countries, but for the entire Europe. The German Chancellor said that Russia's participation in the Fair would promote its exports. Before the ceremony, Mikhail Kasyanov had a brief meeting with Gerhard Schroeder. He also talked to representatives of business circles and discussed prospects of Russian businesses on the German market. On Monday Mikhail Kasyanov will speak at the opening ceremony of the Days of Russian Economy, and in the afternoon he will arrive in Berlin to hold official negotiations with Chancellor Schroeder.

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