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Lavrov: Russia and Guatemala to strengthen cooperation in trade and humanitarian sphere

Russia sees good prospects for trade and investment cooperation with Guatemala

GUATEMALA CITY, March 27 /TASS/. Russia sees good prospects for trade and investment cooperation with Guatemala, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told a joint news conference held with his Guatemalan counterpart Carlos Morales on Thursday.

"Our bilateral relations are on the rise. We have a very good and confidential political dialogue and good prospects for trade. There has been considerable growth in investments," the Russian foreign minister said.

"This year will see the 70th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries. However, the very first contacts between our countries date back to an earlier period…I am sure that the current generation of politicians will preserve and strengthen these good historical traditions of friendly mutually beneficial ties," Lavrov said adding that he had invited his Guatemalan counterpart to visit Russia at his convenience.

The president of the Guatemalan Chamber of Commerce and Industry met representatives of Russian business circles during his visit to Russia last year.

"I believe that these contacts should continue because it’s direct business ties between the two countries that are opening the best perspectives," Lavrov stressed.

He also said that a delegation of the Russian Federation Council /parliament’s upper house/ would visit Guatemala this year.

"We want to develop humanitarian contacts and we expect the rector of the San Carlos University to visit /Russia/ this year," the Russian foreign minister said.

"We also want more Guatemalan citizens to come to study in Russia. We will be ready to increase the number of scholarships," Lavrov added.

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