Russia, U.S. presidents to discuss Iraq and antiterrorism in St. Pete

At a meeting in St.Petersburg, presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and George W. Bush of the United States will consider problems of Iraq and antiterrorism, a RIA Novosti correspondent quoted a high-ranking diplomatic source as saying in Moscow.

The source recalled that the meeting of the two presidents would be held in St. Petersburg within the framework of events marking its 300th anniversary. A date for the meeting is being specified. Supposedly, it will take place on May 31-June 1.

According to the diplomat, in St. Petersburg the presidents will discuss bilateral co-operation, trade and economic contacts, Russian-American partnership, interaction in tackling pressing international problems, including the situation in the Middle East.

Putin and Bush will also consider preparations for the G-8 summit in Evian, France, due on June 1st through 3rd.

The two heads of state will also discuss the timetable for subsequent contacts, said the diplomat.