Russia to increase exports of military equipment

In 2003, Russia will make a number of large contracts on supplying military equipment, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Mikhail Dmitriyev reported at a press conference today. Dmitriyev ranked Greece among the main importers of Russian weapons. According to him, over the past few years the volume of Russian military supplies had exceeded $1bn.

The official noted that Russia also collaborated with countries of the Middle East in the military and technical sphere. Additionally, the list of Russia's major military partners includes China, France, Italy and several African states.