After his visit to the Kremlin, David Cameron dropped in to Russia's Government House.
"We are highly pleased to see you," said Vladimir Putin in welcoming his guest. "Our economic relations are making strides: last year's trade grew by 25%, and the first six months of this year have added another 50%. Last year, the UK took the lead in terms of investments into Russia, which have grown to nearly $40 billion."
The Russian prime minister added with a smile, however, that the British investments into the real economy were "so far modest."
"At any rate, the UK is our long-standing trade and economic partner, and we have things to discuss. You are welcome here!" Putin said.
His British counterpart replied that the current visit was a good opportunity for strengthening bilateral relations. He acknowledged that the economic relations had made much headway of late, adding that he brought along a large group of business people representing both big companies and small businesses keen on cooperation with Russia.
Yelena Chinkova