Russia counts on the further development of trade and economic relations with Guinea-Bissau, they should match the high level of political dialogue between the countries, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said on Monday, opening talks with Guinea-Bissau's foreign minister Suzi Carla Barbosa.
He noted that the two sides intend to sign a memorandum on political consultations between the foreign ministries in furtherance of the political dialogue.
"The next natural step should probably be to increase our trade and economic, investment cooperation in order to bring it to the level of our good, trusting political dialogue," the Russian minister said.
He also noted that Alfredo Cristovao Gomes Lopes Guinea-Bissau's ambassador to Moscow appointed this year, "has very actively started his work".
In turn, Barbosa pointed out the extreme importance of relations with Moscow for her country. "For us Russia is a very important partner, I would even say the most important partner. <...> I would like to say that Guinea-Bissau very much appreciates Russia, because Russia has been the most reliable partner of our country since its independence", stated the minister. She also expressed gratitude for the fact that Russia provided the opportunity to study for 5,000 students from Guinea-Bissau.
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Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry
Based on materials from TASS