Lavrov: Top priority of cooperation with US is “Arms Control”

F.P. Report

MOSCOW: Russian administration on Monday has hinted towards its readiness for negotiations with the new U.S administration and the top priority of Russia will be arms control for cooperation with United States.

The Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov commented over the matter saying that the fact that the administration of US President-elect Joe Biden has people Moscow already engaged in talks may help Russia’s diplomacy avoid a “sluggish start” in launching dialogue.

While addressing a news conference Sergey stated that “We know some of these people. On the one hand, it makes it possible to begin talks without a long break, without a sluggish start, if the US side is willing to respond to our numerous proposals on the Russian-US agenda that are still on the table,”

Russian Foreign Min-ister gave these remarks over reports about Biden’s plans to appoint Antony Blinken as secretary of state and Victoria Nuland as assistant secretary.

The Russian top diplomat underlined that appointments in Biden’s team may mean that Washington’s drive towards dominance will be continued.

Furthermore he also mentioned that “Obviously, containing China and Russia will remain on the foreign policy agenda. It [Washington] is already thinking about what can be done not to let Russia and China consolidate in a way they could feel stronger than America.”

He hoped that the new US administration may act more politely in its relations with Russia but its very policy is doubtful to be changed.

While showcasing his views over U.S-Russia relations he added that, “Americans will have to accept agreements in the areas where it is in their interests, where they understand they cannot do without us and without China.”

Lavrov said, that among such areas are combating infections, climate change and counteracting terrorism and organized crime. As for Russia, in his words, the top priority area of cooperation with the United States is arms control, he mentioned.