MOSCOW, July 15 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday praised the positive development in Russia-France relations and confirmed that mechanisms of cooperation between the two countries are being restored, the Kremlin said.
I would like to note a positive trend in trade and economic sphere: last year's growth of trade was around 15 percent, while in the first six months of 2018, it is 19 percent," Putin said at a meeting with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron held at the Kremlin, according to a Kremlin transcript.
Hailing an upcoming meeting of the Russia-France inter-parliamentary commission, Putin expressed his optimism about prospects of bilateral cooperation.
"The usual cooperation mechanisms are gradually being restored. This gives grounds to believe that we will overcome all the difficulties encountered in the previous period, and will embark on the path of positive development of multifaceted ties," he said.
The Russian president also noted the development of bilateral relations have gained "a good impetus" during the recent St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, where the two heads of state held talks on the sidelines.
On his part, Macron also spoke highly of the results of the meeting on various bilateral, regional and global issues and expressed readiness to continue its dialogue with the Russian side.
Macron visited Russia's second largest city of St. Petersburg in May when the two leaders discussed issues on Iran, Syria and Ukraine. They also agreed to further develop bilateral relations.
The French president also extended congratulations on Russia's successful hosting of this year's World Cup tournament and the excellent performance by the Russian team, the Kremlin said.