Russian deputy PM, Yemeni reps discuss trade, economic cooperation

MOSCOW. Oct 22 (Interfax) - Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak held a working meeting with Aidarus al-Zoubaidi, chairman of the presidential council of the Republic of Yemen and head of the Southern Transitional Council, the government press service said.

The sides discussed a broad range of issues concerning trade and economic cooperation.

"Russia and the Republic of Yemen are connected by strong friendship ties, which are almost 100 years old. Partnership between us has never interrupted," Novak said.

The USSR provided to Yemen considerable socioeconomic and technical assistance, he said, reaffirming the commitment of today's Russia to further strengthening and developing cooperation between the two states, he said.

At the end of the meeting, the sides agreed to organize the first session of the Russian-Yemeni Intergovernmental Commission on trade, economic, and scientific and technical cooperation in the near future.