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Lavrov to discuss key issues of bilateral relations with Spanish counterpart

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will meet with Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Coperation Josep Barrell on November 6
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov Mikhail Tereshchenko/TASS
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
© Mikhail Tereshchenko/TASS

MOSCOW, November 5. /TASS/. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavros has said he hopes to discuss the full range of key issues in bilateral relations with his Spanish counterpart Josep Borrell during his visit to Spain on November 6.

"The contacts between our foreign ministries are rather intensive. Over the last years, my Spanish colleagues have visited Moscow twice, and we also met at different multilateral platforms," Lavrov said in an interview with Spain's El Pais newspaper. "I will be glad to meet Spain's new Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Coperation, Mr Josep Barrell, with whom I plan to discuss in detail the issues on the bilateral, European and international agenda," he added noting that Spain is an important partner for Russia, and that political dialogue at the highest level only improves this friendly atmosphere.

"Our trade turnover is steadily growing. Last year, it grew by 20.6% and reached $5.3 billion. The positive trend continues this year. The inter-governmental mixed commission on economic and industrial cooperation is working effectively. The next, tenth session of the commission will be held in the nearest future," the foreign minister said when commenting on the economic relations between Russia and Spain.

Lavrov also noted developing humanitarian cooperation. "In 2015-2016, the Year of Russian Language and Russian Literature was held in Spain, and the Year of Spanish Language and Spanish Literature was held in Russia, both with great success. We currently continue working together on developing the program for the cross Year of Education and Science planned for 2019-2020," he added.

The Russian foreign minister also drew attention to the growing tourist exchange between the two countries. He said that this trend was facilitated by the successful cross Year of Tourism in 2016-2017. "Over 1 million Russians visit Spain every year. I note with pleasure the gradual increase of the number of Spanish tourists in Russia - last year it stood at around 120,000 people," he concluded.