Novosti (RIA Novosti) has regularly updated news stories on the Russian President’s proposals for several new projects to be undertaken by both countries to set up a free economic area as agreed by the Russian and Vietnamese leaders.

A central TV channel on December 15 covered PM Dung’s activities in Russia and said that Russia wants to foster links with Vietnam in trade, energy, education and national defense. Meanwhile, another TV channel said that the Vietnamese and Russian PMs had discussed future bilateral cooperation while emphasising that the global economic downturn will not prevent Russia and Vietnam from increasing their two-day trade turnover.

Radio the Voice of Russia quoted Russian Prime Minister Putin as saying Russia-Vietnam relations are developing in line with the joint statement on strategic partnership.

According to the Russian PM, despite facing the global economic downturn, since early this year, two-way trade value has passed last years’ level. Russian businesses are currently investing in 60 projects in Vietnam. The Russia-Vietnam partnership plays an important role in boosting Vietnam’s economic development.

Mr Putin also emphasised the need to enhance bilateral relations in culture with the unveiling of a monument in commemoration of Former Soviet Union soldiers killed on international missions.

On December 16, the Russian media covered the talks between the two government leaders and the signing of deals between the Vietnam National Oil and Gas Group, the Gazprom Group and Inter Rao, and an agreement between the Electricity of Vietnam Group and the energy group Rosatom.