Moscow, August 24 (Interfax) - Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has sent a congratulatory message to Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov on the occasion of the Ukrainian Independence Day, the government's press office said.
"The relations between our countries, based on the centuries-long common history, spiritual and cultural affinity, have been developing in a positive manner. Recently, we have significantly stepped up cooperation on trade, the economy, investment, science and technology, the defense industry, culture, and have been implementing large-scale joint projects," the telegram said.
"A high level of mutual understanding has been reached in the inter-governmental dialogue," the prime minister said.
"I am certain that by joining our efforts we will continue to efficiently resolve various problems facing our countries and improve the mechanisms of bilateral partnership in the interests of the fraternal nations of Russia and Ukraine," the prime minister said.
On Aug. 24, Ukraine marks the 20th anniversary of its independence.
