April 17, 2008	Thursday	Rabi-us-Sani 10, 1429

TRIPOLI, April 16: Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Libya on Wednesday for a 24-hour visit expected to be dominated by talks over energy contracts and arms sales.

Putin was immediately taken to Bab Azizia Palace, a sprawling complex where Libyan leader Moamer Kadhafi usually pitches his tent when in Tripoli.

Putin is visiting the country at Qadhafi’s invitation — one of the Russian leader’s final formal trips before he steps down on May 7.

The trip is expected to include talks on Russian investment in Libyan gas and nuclear energy as Moscow seeks to boost ties with Libya, which is emerging from 20 years of diplomatic and economic isolation.

Arms sales to Tripoli and the clearing of Soviet-era debt may also be touched on, according to Russian government sources.

The visit comes as Russia is trying to coordinate policy with other gas producing states, notably Algeria, and is promoting plans for an organisation of gas producers similar to Opec, of which Libya is a member.

Another major bilateral issue is the repayment of up to $3.5 billion worth of Soviet-era debt to Moscow, Russia’s RIA Novosti news agency reported, citing a finance ministry official.

And Russia hopes to sign a deal worth $2.5 billion to sell air defence, aviation, naval and land-based weapons to Libya soon, Interfax news agency reported, citing an unnamed defence industry official.—AFP