MOSCOW. Feb 15 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he is expecting much of his talk with German Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz to focus on European security and added that he is planning to hear out Scholz's point of view.
"No doubt, we will spend a lot of time today on discussing the security levels in Europe and the fierce debates on the issue, including the events unfolding around Ukraine," Putin said at the beginning of his meeting with Scholz.
He said he had recently met with French President Emmanuel Macron.
"I know he has briefed you on the essence of the issues highlighted at our discussion. In this context, it would be highly instructive and interesting to learn about your opinion on the events," Putin said.
"Clearly, given the complex peace and security situation in Europe, we need to talk, just like you did with my French colleague, and I am glad this has become possible," he said.
It is important "to always settle issues in interstate relations through dialogue," Scholz said.
In turn, Putin said he was glad to meet the new German chancellor and noted that Germany was a leading European partner of Russia.
Russia has been a reliable supplier of energy resources to Germany for decades, Putin said.
"There has not been a single disruption in energy supply from Russia over these decades. Everything is being done on the basis of market principles, and there are absolutely no questions or doubts about that," he said.