Russian embassy in US calls for closer cooperation in Independence Day message

The Russian Embassy in the United States has called for closer cooperation between Moscow and Washington, saying the two countries "could and should coexist constructively" despite years of strained relations.

In a message posted on Facebook to mark the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, the embassy said Russia and the United States share a history of cooperation and should build "a true, economically viable, mutually respectful and equal partnership," Caliber.Az reports. 

"Nowadays, in the absence of principled ideological divides... Russia and the U.S. could and should coexist constructively, building on true, economically viable, mutually respectful and equal partnership," the embassy said.

The statement argued that relations between the two countries have included periods of close cooperation, pointing to Russia's support for the American colonies during the War of Independence, its backing of the Union during the U.S. Civil War, and the wartime alliance against Nazi Germany during World War II.

The embassy also acknowledged periods of tension, including U.S. non-recognition of the Soviet Union until 1933 and the Cold War, but said Moscow and Washington had nevertheless found ways to avoid direct confrontation.

"Even in the worst years of the Cold War, Moscow and Washington, realising their responsibility for the world's peace and security, did find ways to avoid confrontation," the statement said.

The embassy praised what it described as the "excellent personal chemistry" between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, adding that both countries support "traditional values of family and religion, sovereignty and nation-state."

The message concluded by congratulating the United States on the 250th anniversary of its independence and expressing hope for a more constructive relationship between the two nuclear powers. 

By Sabina Mammadli