Russian-Indonesian Summit in the Kremlin

Opening a Russian-Indonesian summit in the Kremlin, President Vladimir Putin said that the Indonesian leadership was conducting a policy directed at consolidating world peace and the non-aligned movement. With the recently improved situation in Indonesia, including economic progress, there are grounds for expecting a successful development of Russian-Indonesian ties in various spheres, said the Russian president.

Noting bilateral long-standing friendly relations, Putin said, addressing his Indonesian counterpart Megawati Sukarnoputri: "We are happy to welcome you in Russia as the president and the daughter of the great father (Sukarno) who is commemorated in this country." There is a record here of conferences dedicated to Surkarno and editions of books written by him, added the Russian leader.

Sukarno stood at the grassroots of non-alignment movement, which plays a major significance on the world scene, continued Putin. He was happy to see Megawati Sukarnoputri again and reminded her of their latest meeting in Shanghai.

For her part, the Indonesian president noted that she had learnt a lot from her father who talked with her about the heroic exploits of the Russian people.

The talks in a narrow circle, with the involvement of aides and interpreters, are in progress at the Green drawing room of the Grand Kremlin Palace.