Merkel to probe Medvedev on future Russian reforms
(dpa) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel expects to hear more from Russian President-elect Dimitri Medvedev on his reform and modernization plans during a visit to Moscow Saturday.
Merkel's spokesman, Ulrich Wilhelm, said Friday the chancellor hoped to gain an impression of Russian political developments following the recent elections.
The chancellor was looking forward to hearing more from Medvedev on his recent comments regarding the rule of law, the modernization of the economy and state and the reduction of bureaucracy, Wilhelm said.
The meeting, which takes place at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin, is the first between Medvedev and a foreign head of government.
The German and Russian leaders would also discuss major international themes, the spokesman said, mentioning the Middle East, Kosovo and Iran.
Merkel is to hold hour-long talks with Putin before meeting Medvedev.
