DATE=6/5/2000
TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT
TITLE=PUTIN / ROME (L)
NUMBER=2-263191
BYLINE=SABINA CASTELFRANCO
DATELINE=ROME
INTERNET=YES
CONTENT=
VOICED AT:


INTRO:  Russian President Vladimir Putin has renewed a 
proposal to work with Europe and NATO on a joint anti-
missile defense system that would not violate the 1972 
Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty.  The Russian head of 
state was speaking in Italy, where he is making his 
first official visit to a Western state since he was 
elected.  Sabina Castelfranco reports from Rome.

TEXT:  The Russian President arrived in Rome and 
immediately went into talks with Italian Prime 
Minister Giuliano Amato.

The two hour meeting focused on economic, humanitarian 
and security issues.  Mr. Putin later said that many 
people around the world are concerned about 
maintaining the 1972 anti-ballistic missile accord.

Russia has repeatedly expressed concerns about a U-S 
proposal to build a limited missile defense system to 
defend against attacks by so called rogue-states.

During his talks in Rome, Mr. Putin proposed that 
Russia cooperate with NATO and Europe to set up a 
common anti-missile defense system. The Russian leader 
said such a system would avoid problems involving the 
imbalances of forces and would guarantee the security 
of individual European states.

For his part, the Italian prime minister expressed 
satisfaction with the talks.

After his meeting with the Italian prime minister, the 
Russian head of state went to the Vatican for an 
private audience with Pope John Paul II.

According to a statement released by the Vatican's 
papal spokesman, the Pope and Mr. Putin discussed 
disarmament issues and the role of the Vatican and 
Russia in the integration process between East and 
West.

On Monday evening Mr. Putin was to be the guest of 
honor at a banquet offered by Italy's head of state in 
the presidential palace in Rome.

Tuesday, the Russian president travels to Italy's 
financial capital, Milan, for meetings with business 
leaders. Mr. Putin hopes to boost Italian investment 
in Russia where two of Italy's largest companies, oil-
giant Eni and car-maker Fiat are already active. Italy 
is Russia's third most important trade partner among 
industrialized nations.  (Signed)

NEB/SC/KBK  



05-Jun-2000 16:26 PM LOC (05-Jun-2000 2026 UTC)
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Source: Voice of America
.