Brussels, 18/12/2007 (Agence Europe) - A first meeting between European and Russian experts was held in Moscow on 12 December in the context of dialogue on visas. Experts mainly looked at the legislative and practical aspects for protecting documents, including the use of biometrics, and the procedure for registering foreign nationals in Russia. Commissioner Franco Frattini, who had attended the meeting of the EU-Russia Partnership permanent council on justice and home affairs several days earlier, had called on Russia to simplify the still complicated procedures on registration of EU nationals on Russian soil. Mr Frattini had in fact received various complaints from European business representatives who deplored the fact that it is still difficult for their members to set up business in Russia. Although the European Commission has made progress in discussions on this point with the Russians, it has not deemed it necessary to review the matter. A forthcoming meeting of experts should take place in early 2008. (B.C.)