Russian President Dmitry Medvedev will hold an informal meeting with his visiting Croatian counterpart, Stjepan Mesic, on Monday, the Kremlin said.
"The heads of state will hold informal talks seeking a genuine exchange of opinions on a wide range of issues," the Kremlin said on Sunday adding the presidents will focus on trade while discussing bilateral ties.
Bilateral trade grew to over $2 billion in 2008, but declined more than 60% in January-September against the backdrop of the ongoing global recession, the Kremlin said in a news release.
"A possibility of carrying out projects in the oil, gas, and electricity sectors is being studied," the Kremlin said.
Tourism is another area of cooperation between Russia and the Balkan state. Croatia with its striking natural beauty and resorts on the Adriatic coast is a popular tourist destination among Russians.
Mesic arrives in Moscow on Sunday for a two-day working visit. This will be the last official visit to Russia as president for Mesic as his second five-year presidential term expires in early 2010.
He is also expected to meet with Prime Minister Vladimir Putin and other high-ranking Russian officials.
MOSCOW, December 13 (RIA Novosti)
