Bush, Putin discuss missile defense shield, Iran nuclear program

WATCH VIDEO

Source: CCTV.com | 07-03-2007 09:48

U.S. President George W. Bush (R) and Russia's President Vladimir Putin hold a joint press availability after their summit meeting at the Bush family home on Walker's Point in Kennebunkport, Maine July 2, 2007. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo)

Fishing diplomacy appears to be having some effect as the US and Russia try to iron out their differences. On Monday, presidents George W. Bush and Vladimir Putin were intent on portraying a strong, stable relationship after their meeting in Maine.

The two leaders sought to rebuild US-Russian relations in their meeting at the ocean front estate of Bush's father.

Bush said, "Do I trust him? Yeah I trust him. Do I like everything he says? No. And I suspect he doesn't like everything I say. But we are able to say it in a way that shows mutual respect. Take missile defence, he just laid out a vision I think it is very sincere, I think it is innovative and I think it is strategic - but as I told Vladimir I think the Czech Republic and Poland need to be an integral part of the system."

Bush would not say whether the United States and Russia agreed on tougher sanctions against Iran. They will only say the two countries stood together.

Bush said, "I've come to the conclusion that when Russia and America speak along the same lines it tends to have an effect and therefore I appreciate very much the Russian attitude in the United Nations. I have been counting on the Russian support to send a clear message to the Iranians and that support, and that message is a strong message."

Putin said, "So far, we have managed to work within the framework of the Security Council and I think we will continue to be successful on this track."

Bush and Putin want to keep Iran from developing nuclear weapons. However, they don't see eye-to-eye on sanctions, or even whether Iranian missiles currently pose a threat.

They also have contrasting views on democracy, NATO expansion into Russia's backyard, and independence for Kosovo.

Editor:Du Xiaodan