Putin in Germany for industrial fair, talks with Merkel

PanARMENIAN.Net - Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Hanover, Germany, on Sunday, April 7 to attend the inauguration of a major industrial fair and hold talks with Chancellor Angela Merkel, RIA Novosti reported.

At the start of his two-day visit to Germany, Putin joined Merkel at the opening of the Hannover Messe (Hanover Fair). The Russian president and German Chancellor were also expected to hold talks to discuss both international and bilateral issues.

On Monday Putin and Merkel will visit the Russian pavilion and give a press conference later on day.

The Russian delegation at the five-day fair includes Economic Development Minister Andrei Belousov, Education and Science Minister Dmitry Livanov, Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov, Energy Minister Alexander Novak and Russian Transport Minister Maxim Sokolov. The delegation also comprises the heads of Russia’s largest companies.

Russia’s participation in Germany's annual industrial fair as the main partner country is a key event on the bilateral program of the Year of Russia in Germany and Year of Germany in Russia in 2012-2013. Putin’s visit is expected to promote Russian businesses among strategic investors in Germany and Europe in general.

The Russian leader will fly to the Netherlands later on Monday for a one-day visit, during which he is expected to take part in the Year of Russia opening ceremony and sign bilateral agreements on energy, industry and innovation.