Mr Medvedev and Mrs Merkel discussed practical implementation of the six conflict resolution principles drawn up by Mr Medvedev and French President Nicholas Sarkozy. Point five (the withdrawal of troops and additional security measures) received particular attention. Mr Medvedev gave full explanations to Mrs Merkel on these issues and reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to implementing the principles that were agreed.
Mr Medvedev also gave detailed explanations of Russia’s position regarding its recognition of the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, a decision of which Russia informed the leaders of the countries concerned before the corresponding presidential decrees were signed.
The conversation took place at Germany’s initiative.