The two presidents were on first name terms throughout their news conference. George Bush remarked that their meetings had always been agreeable, even when they disagreed.
But disagree they do, and on the most fundamental issues - Nato expansion and missile defence.
On the latter, Vladimir Putin emphasised that his country's opposition to American plans for a missile defence shield in Eastern Europe went deeper than simple objections of protocol.
"This is not about language, this is not about diplomatic phrasing or wording, this is about the substance of the issue," he said. "I'd like to be very clear on this. Our fundamental attitude to the American plans has not changed."
Since Putin is no longer president a strain will be put on the relationship of him and US president, George W. Bush. They seem to be great friends. However their friendship does not mean much whenit comesto the US's desire to set up a missile defence system. Russia refuses to participate.
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