Rouble as Russia-Belarus Single Currency to Be Discussed at Two Premiers' Negotiations - 6 March, 2003

On Thursday Russia's Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov had negotiations with his Belarussian counterpart Gennady Novitsky in Moscow.

During the meeting the Premiers exchanged their opinions on a wide range of issues connected with the fulfilment of agreements on forming a common economic area, the government information department has told journalists. Introduction of a Russian rouble as a single currency for the Union State of Russia and Belarus will be the key issue at the negotiations. Previously, the parties had already agreed to introduce a single currency since January 1st, 2005.

The Head of the Central Bank, financiers, economists and a representative for the Foreign Ministry also participated in the two Premiers' meeting.