On July 17-18 Portuguese Foreign Minister Augusto Santos Silva paid a working visit to Moscow.
During intensive talks in the Russian Foreign Ministry, the two ministers exchanged opinions on the current state and prospects of bilateral political and economic cooperation and major international and regional issues. Both sides expressed interest in continuing regular dialogue and promoting cooperation in the world arena.
Discussing bilateral issues, the ministers emphasised the need to search for ways of invigorating trade and economic cooperation as well as ties in tourism against a backdrop of unfavourable world developments. They noted the special role of cultural and humanitarian ties, which continue to develop dynamically despite difficult international political conditions. Moreover, they have preserved their positive experience of the past and considerably expanded on it, owing to the appearance of new members and forms of cooperation.
Regarding the international agenda, the ministers focused on Russia’s current relations with the European Union and NATO. They exchanged opinions on the developments in Ukraine, Syria, Turkey and Libya and the need to upgrade multilateral cooperation in countering ISIS. They also spoke about various aspects of UN activities.
