[The Russians often used to sell weapons at discount prices… even below cost price if they want to help arm someone to do their bidding. It is interesting how Russian arms exports to the Middle East and parts of Africa is increasing… I believe this represents more evidence of their meddling in the Middle East… arming up anyone who is anti-USA, anti-Israel… Jan]

Thursday, January 6, 2005

RUSSIA REPORTS PROGRESS IN MIDEAST ARMS BID
MOSCOW [MENL] — Russia has reported progress in its efforts to increase
defense exports in the Middle East.

Russian officials said the state-owned arms agency Rosoboronexport has
scored gains in efforts to win defense contracts in the Middle East. The
officials said the most promising markets in the region appear to be in
Algeria, Iran, Kuwait, Sudan and the United Arab Emirates.

“There is a noticeable increase in trade with such promising Southeast Asian countries as Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam, as well as signs of
improvement in our interaction with some countries in the Middle East and
Africa,” Rosoboronexport said in a recent statement.

Rosoboronexport did not elaborate. The agency reported exports of $5.1
billion in 2003 but officials said this figure was expected to decline in
2004.
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