Russia, US agree to remove barriers to economic cooperation

Russia and the United States have expressed mutual interest in eliminating obstacles to economic collaboration, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said following high-level talks in Riyadh.

Lavrov emphasized the substantial interest both nations have in dismantling "artificial barriers" that hinder the growth of mutually beneficial economic ties, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

He noted that during the meeting, discussions focused on finding solutions to both international and economic challenges that affect both countries.

A key figure in the discussions was Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, who attended the talks and presented several issues that could be addressed swiftly for the mutual benefit of Russia and the United States.

Lavrov highlighted Dmitriev’s contributions, which suggested practical resolutions to improve cooperation between the two nations.

The meeting marked a positive shift, with both sides outlining their desire to reach tangible solutions on critical issues affecting bilateral relations, particularly in the realms of international affairs and economic development.

This dialogue represents an important step toward fostering closer ties between Russia and the United States, with the aim of enhancing economic cooperation and addressing shared global concerns.

In a pivotal moment for US-Russia relations, the two nations agreed to initiate efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and improving diplomatic and economic ties.

The announcement came after high-level talks between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, marking a striking shift in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump.

Secretary Rubio outlined three key objectives that emerged from the discussions: restoring diplomatic staffing at both embassies in Washington and Moscow, establishing a high-level team to support peace talks regarding Ukraine, and exploring avenues for stronger economic cooperation. Despite this progress, Rubio emphasized that the talks represented just the beginning of the dialogue, and substantial work remains to be done to achieve these goals.

Lavrov echoed Rubio’s sentiments, describing the conversation as “very useful,” and highlighting the mutual understanding reached during the meeting. "We not only listened, but also heard each other," Lavrov remarked, underscoring the constructive nature of the discussions.

The talks, which included US National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, Special Middle East Envoy Steven Witkoff, as well as Lavrov and Yury Ushakov, President Vladimir Putin’s foreign affairs adviser, signal a potential turning point in the bilateral relationship.

By Vafa Guliyeva