The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation published Sergey Lavrov’s opening remarks at the talks with Kerry:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation published Sergey Lavrov’s opening remarks at the talks with Kerry:
Mr Secretary of State,
Dear John,
Colleagues,
We are happy to welcome you to Moscow. We appreciate this opportunity to continue our interaction on a number of international issues. The Presidents of Russia and the United States have discussed issues pertaining to intensifying the fight against terrorism several times over the past few months. We need to discuss some of these issues today in the context of the continued efforts of the International Syria Support Group (ISSG). The Syrian settlement must not be left without our attention in light of the tasks and agreements that were reached at the first two ISSG meetings in Vienna.
Of course, the issue of terrorism is not limited to Syria. An international meeting on Libya, where ISIS is gaining more ground, was held the other day. ISIS is also active in Iraq, and acts of terrorism have been reported in Yemen and Afghanistan. I hope we will be able to discuss these issues as a package today.
We would also like to exchange opinions on the Palestinian-Israeli issue.
It goes without saying that we would like to continue the discussions, which the Presidents of Russia and the United States have launched, on possible US assistance in the settlement of the Ukrainian crisis. Given Washington’s influence on Kiev, this could be a useful aid to the Normandy format efforts.
I am willing to discuss any issues of bilateral relations you want. Later today, we will inform President Vladimir Putin about the results of our discussions. I hope your visit will be productive.
