Russia and Germany need to hold intensive dialogue in a bid to beef up cooperation in various fields, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday. Speaking to visiting German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the 17th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin said such a dialogue is needed given that bilateral relations \"have been dynamically developed in all directions.\" He noted the increasing trade volume between Russia and Germany which now stands at 80 billion U.S. dollars, calling for new initiatives and joint projects. Merkel said German companies \"are ready to work actively in Russia, but this supposes clear frame legislative conditions and transparency.\"