Although not many people were involved in the talks between Yanukovych and Wang Ye, the reception room was quite spacious.
At the very front and center stood two single armchairs, with a small coffee table between them holding a vase of simple, elegant flowers.
Behind the armchairs stood two national flags—those of Russia and Ukraine...
Slightly behind and to the side of each armchair was another chair. They were originally meant for interpreters, but since both men spoke Russian, there was no need for interpretation, so their assistants sat there instead.
In front of the armchairs, two rows of seats were lined up neatly. They were for the two men's subordinates and accompanying personnel.
The opening was another round of diplomatic pleasantries. Each spoke about the past friendship and brotherhood between Russia and Ukraine, then looked ahead to how the two nations would continue moving forward hand in hand toward prosperity and strength.
Naturally, Wang Ye also congratulated Yanukovych on his successful election as president, saying it had been the most correct choice made by the Ukrainian people.
Under Yanukovych's leadership, Ukraine would also welcome new opportunities and development...
Yanukovych humbly replied that he would not disappoint the trust and expectations of the people, and that he would do his utmost to fulfill his duties...
Only after the pleasantries were over did they turn to the real topic.
There were no media reporters left in the meeting hall. Everyone present was one of their own, so Wang Ye got straight to the point. "I came this time to discuss a very important matter with your side: Ukraine joining the Collective Security Organization.
"As everyone knows, the purpose of establishing the Collective Security Organization was to protect those of us who once belonged to the Former Soviet Union.
"After the dissolution