Munich - Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and German Chancellor Angela Merkel strongly condemned Wednesday's murder of rights activist Natalya Estemirova, at bilateral talks in Munich on Thursday. "The murder of our human rights activist is of course a very sad event," Medvedev said.
"In contrast to earlier incidences, it is clear in this case: the murder was connected to her activity (as an activist)," the Russian president added.
Merkel called the murder "an unacceptable event," and expressed her dismay during the talks in Munich's baroque Schleissheim Palace.
Medvedev lauded Estemirova for speaking the truth.
"She at times relentlessly uncovered processes occurring in the country. This is the value of human rights activists, even if they are uncomfortable for the state powers," the Russian president said.
The leaders' bilateral talks also included discussions on the global economic crisis and foreign policy hotspots, before the forum was extended to include government ministers.
Merkel and Medvedev discussed both Iran and North Korea, and raised the issue of the countries' nuclear capabilities.
Russia and Germany agreed to work closely to combat the global recession and establish joint business deals, Medvedev said.
"The crisis is not over," the president said, adding that the only way to overcome it was by creating a framework for cooperation.
Merkel spoke in favour of an Opel takeover bid led by Canadian car parts manufacturer Magna, to be financed in part by Russian state- owned Sherbank.
The chancellor said Magna's proposals created an excellent foundation, but stressed that numerous issues needed to be resolved. Everything should be done to finalize the outstanding points.
A deal was also agreed for Siemens to deliver trains to Russia, while Frankfurt Airport's operator Fraport is to participate in the expansion of St. Petersburg airport.
Russian and German government ministers agreed to improve cooperation against crime and terrorism, and sealed the foundation of a joint energy agency.
The German interior ministry said both parties formalised a joint approach against terrorism, cyber crime and fighting drugs in Afghanistan.
German Culture Minister Bernd Neumann returned six 18th-century baroque ornaments, illegally taken by a German soldier during World War II.
Merkel and Medvedev were later to participate in the closing session of the so-called Petersburg Dialogue between civil society representatives from both countries.
