Medvedev proposes to Luxembourg counterpart to discuss economic, other relations
SOCHI. Oct 5 (Interfax) - Despite their long history, the current state of the relations between Russia and Luxembourg requires serious attention, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said at the talks with Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, which began on Monday evening.
"They [the bilateral relations] have a long and very potent history. But on the other hand, the current state of these relations requires us to pay more serious attention. I propose that we discuss both economic and other issues which are probably relevant today," Medvedev said.
"For me it is a great honor to come to your country as the prime minister and with such a personal emphasis. I am very glad to be in a country whose blood is running through me as well," Bettel said.
The prime minister of Luxembourg is a great-grandnephew (maternally) of the Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff.
"For me it is a great honor to visit the city of Sochi where the Duke of Luxembourg has been for the Olympic Games, and I am very pleased to meet you personally... It will be my pleasure to also touch upon the bilateral relations that will seem important to us and that we should discuss," Bettel said.
"I've come here to talk in the spirit of mutual respect," said the prime minister of Luxembourg.