The next meeting of the committee on economic cooperation of the Ukrainian-Russian interstate commission will be held in late September or early October this year.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov said this in Sochi (Russia) on Friday following a meeting with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, the government portal reported.

We agreed that we will hold a meeting of the intergovernmental committee on economic cooperation of the Ukrainian-Russian interstate commission, which is chaired by the presidents of Russia and Ukraine, in late September or early October. But this time we will give instructions to concerned ministries and departments on all issues that we discussed today - to prepare draft decisions and maximally coordinate positions, Azarov said.

He generally praised todays working meeting during which the sides managed to reach understanding on many issues.

Our joint opinion is the same: its necessary to meet more often and discuss in a friendly atmosphere all problems that arise and try to find mutually beneficial solutions. We made progress on almost all issues that we discussed, Azarov said.

He said that the sides had discussed cooperation in the energy sector, including the pumping and transit of Russian natural gas. They also spoke about the intensification of cooperation in innovation, space and in the field of aircraft construction. In particular, the sides agreed to resume mass production of An-124s and simplify customs and border procedures in passenger trains, etc.

The sides also discussed controversial issues in Ukrainian-Russian economic and trade relations.

In addition, they discussed preparations for Russian President Vladimir Putins visit to Ukraine to take part in events to mark the 1,025th anniversary of the Kyiv Rus conversion to Christianity.

Im pleased with the results of the meeting. It was useful, and there was an extremely constructive exchange of views, Azarov said.

He noted that the parties finally have the ability to find flexible solutions to sensitive issues and that this should be developed.

Ukrinform