Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi on Monday met visiting Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, and discussed with him on efforts to expand bilateral ties, according to reports from Tripoli.

Russia and Libya are preparing a solid package of agreements to be signed during a summit meeting of Vladimir Putin and Muammar Gaddafi.

"Like any summit, it should be well-prepared. The package of possible future agreements in the economic, political and military-technical spheres is quite impressive," Lavrov told reporters on his way back from Tripoli to Moscow.

"It's important that both sides take speedy efforts to finish talks on key issues. There is mutual willingness on both sides and we are going to exploit it," he said.

Asked about Libya's debt to Russia, Lavrov said that the problem would hopefully be settled soon.

"Naturally, we discussed all problems that remain between us. We have a clear understanding that we will push for a settlement that would be acceptable to both sides and contribute to our cooperation," the minister said.

He expressed satisfaction with the results of his visit to Libya and his talks with Gaddafi, whom he described as a "noble man aware of his responsibility for his country and of Libya's role in Africa and the world, a man who sees a very significant place for Libya's partnership with Russia".

"We support this position", the minister said.

Interfax

Güncelleme Tarihi: 25 Aralık 2007, 17:12