President holds talks with Russian counterpart in Moscow

MOSCOW, Feb. 25 (Saba) - President Ali Abdullah Saleh and his
Russian counterpart Dmitriy Medvedev held talks on Wednesday in
Moscow over historical relations between Yemen and Russia and means
of enhancing mutual cooperation between the two countries in
different economic, cultural and military fields.

They also discussed recent regional and international developments
of common concern in the top of which are the Israel offensive in
Gaza Strip and the current situation in Iraq and African Horn as
well as international efforts of combating terror and piracy.

The two leaders affirmed importance of coordination between the two
countries to combat acts of piracy off Aden Gulf and Somali
coastlines, insisting on going head with efforts of realizing the
just peace in the region.


President Saleh pointed out to the key role of Russia to push peace
process in the region of Middle East based on the resolutions of the
international community related to the Arab-Israeli conflict,
renewing support of Yemen to Russia trends to hold a conference in
Moscow for peace in the region.

He also insisted on active role of Russia to face piracy, which
threatens security of the international navigation in the region and
world.

The president welcomed Russian companies to invest in Yemen,
reviewing opportunities of investments in domains of oil, gas,
minerals and fisheries wealth.

The Russian investments would receive all care, president Saleh said.

For his part, the Russian president said that the visit of president
Saleh would enhance bilateral relations between the two countries to
further horizons, saying that Russia concerns to develop its
historical ties with Yemen.

He said that Russia would encourage Russian businessmen to invest in
Yemen to boost economic cooperation between the tow nations.

The Russian leader also highlighted initiative of Yemen to achieve
conciliation between Palestinian factions.

The two leaders agreed to form a joint committee to follow up
cooperation agreements signed between the two countries.

AH