President Dmitry Medvedev today called new arms and energy deals between Russia and Ecuador just a beginning as Moscow strives to deepen ties in Latin America, according to AP. Medvedev and Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa announced a $22 million deal for Russia to provide Ecuador with two Mi-17 transport helicopters. «It"s not much, but it"s the beginning of cooperation,» Medvedev said. «There are prospects for our nations.» They also presided over of the signing of agreements on Russia"s assistance in the construction of two hydropower stations and development of Ecuador"s substantial oil and gas reserves. Correa, the first Ecuadorean president to make an official visit to Russia, called his trip «historic.» Ecuador is Russia"s third largest trade partner in Latin America _ after Brazil and Argentina _ with the 2008 turnover of $936 million. Almost 90 per cent of bananas and some 60 per cent of roses sold in Russia come from Ecuador.
