Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart, Leonid Kuchma, have held talks outside Moscow on economic issues.
The leaders met Saturday at Mr. Putin's country residence in Novo Ogarevo.
Russian Prime Minster Mikhail Fradkov, who also took part in the talks, said Ukraine and Russia plan to reach agreements by December on easing trade and border restrictions between them.
Itar-Tass news agency quotes President Putin as describing Ukraine as a key partner and saying that Russia wants the country to be strong and prosperous.
Ukraine's Prime Minister Viktor Yanukovich, also attended the meeting.