Yeltsin ends isolation for relaxed meeting with Kohl
September 7, 1996
Web posted at: 11:00 p.m. EDT (0300 GMT)
From CNN Correspondent Jackie Shymanski
Moscow (CNN) -- In his first encounter with a Western
head of state since winning re-election July 3,
Russian President Boris Yeltsin met Saturday with
German Chancellor Helmut Kohl.
Both leaders sported burgundy sweaters and strolled in
amiable fashion through the grounds of a picturesque
hunting lodge, where Yeltsin is said to be resting and
readying for heart surgery.
The informal setting spoke volumes of the relationship
between Yeltsin and Kohl, who speak of each other as
personal friends.
The two men met face to face for about 35 minutes and
discussed Yeltsin's health, although neither would
elaborate on the Russian leader's upcoming surgery.
Kohl said he was solidly behind Yeltsin when it came
to rife speculation of a possible power vacuum due to
his illness.
They also talked about a wide range of issues,
including peace talks in Chechnya and NATO plans to
expand into former East Bloc countries, a move Russia
has strongly condemned.
Kohl said it was agreed that all questions on the NATO
issue would be resolved in time for a NATO summit
slated for 1997.
Related stories:
Related site:
Note: Page will open in a new browser window
External sites are not endorsed by CNN Interactive.
© 1996 Cable News Network, Inc.
All Rights Reserved.