Russia is closely following the developments in Ukraine, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said, adding that, while these developments are Ukraine's internal affairs, it is important to preserve stability and order in the country.

"You are having quite an active political season now. Certainly, we are closely following what is going on in your country, but, undeniably, this is Ukraine's internal affair. Although, certainly, it is very important to maintain stability and order in the country," Medvedev said at a meeting with Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov and Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Yuriy Boiko.

The Russian prime minister said he expected that the negotiations between Shuvalov and Boiko would bring some progress in bilateral issues on which there has been no progress made of late.

"Ukraine still remains a most important strategic partner for us, just as Russia remains such for Ukraine. Therefore, this predetermines the agenda for the near future and I hope for a more distant future as well," Medvedev said.