Home | China | World | Business Putin, Blair Discuss Pressing International Issues WED, FEB 27, 2002     Russian President Vladimir Putin and British Prime Minister Tony Blair discussed over telephone pressing international issues, especially the Russia-NATO ties and Afghanistan's post-war reconstruction, said the Kremlin press service. During the 30-minute conversation that took place upon Britain's initiative, the two leaders exchanged opinions over a new format for the relations between Russia and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), which will provide a special status for Russia in the alliance. Both leaders stressed the necessity to step up the Russia-NATO dialogue, making it more concrete and pragmatic, said the Kremlin. Putin and Blair also discussed practical issues on the cooperation regarding the post-conflict construction in Afghanistan. They expressed satisfaction over regular bilateral contacts and outlined a long-term plan to implement them at various levels. Editor:Liu Hongji Source:Xinhua Recommend to your friend email:    China Central Television,All Rights Reserved