Russia-EBRD relations satisfactory - Putin

NOVO-OGAREVO, August 29 (Itar-Tass) -- Russian Prime Minister Vladimir
Putin has described as satisfactory the development of relations between
Russia and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
"We are satisfied with progress in our relations," Putin said at a
meeting with EBRD chief Thomas Mirow on Friday. "We have a very good
long-standing relationship with the EBRD."
Putin recalled that over the years of cooperation the EBRD disbursed
over 11 billion dollars to finance a variety of Russian projects in very
important branches of the economy.
As an example Putin pointed to the automotive industry, including
Volkswagen and Toyota plants in Russia. Also on the list of projects the
Russian prime minister mentioned the upgrading of energy systems in a
number of regions and cleaning facilities in St. Petersburg.
"We are looking forward to the EBRD's new program for Russia for 2010,
Putin said.
The Russian prime minister noted the high decree of the EBRD's
capitalization and its opportunities to draw considerable funds. At the
same time Putin speculated that "if some amendments were introduced to the
bank's Charter regarding the ratio of the bank's own capital and the
amount of credits issued, the capital may be built up further."