President Halonen discussed with President Putin

Office of the President of the Republic of Finland Press Release 24 August 2006

President of the Republic of Finland Tarja Halonen talked with President Vladimir Putin of Russia over the phone on Thursday, 24 August 2006. They discussed timely bilateral and international issues as well as the development of relations between the EU and Russia during the Finnish Presidency of the EU.

One issue of concern was the recent forest fires in Russia and the need to develop cooperation in rescue work. President Halonen believes it is very important to improve cooperation and the flow of information in situations that can have cross-border effects. President Halonen and President Putin agreed to discuss the matter when they meet in the autumn.

President Halonen also expressed condolences following the crash of a Russian plane on Tuesday.