Angela Merkel: 'Russia is an important partner of the G20'

(Baonghean.vn) - "Russia is an important partner of the G20" - German Chancellor Angela Merkel affirmed during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Sochi.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and German Chancellor Angela Merkel are holding talks in Sochi. During their meeting, the two leaders will discuss important international issues, including the fight against terrorism, the situation in the Middle East and the implementation of the Minsk agreements.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Sochi. Photo: TASS

The meeting began in a warm and friendly atmosphere. "Thank you, Prime Minister, for taking the time to meet us and for informing us about the preparations for the G20 Summit in Hamburg. And of course, within the framework of this visit, we will 'take advantage' to discuss bilateral relations between Russia and Germany in all areas. In addition, there are 'hot spots' such as Ukraine, Syria and some other regions" - President Vladimir Putin said.

At the meeting, Ms. Merkel said that this year Germany is the host country for the G20 Summit, and assessed that "Russia is an important partner of the G20".

German Chancellor Angela Merkel strongly agreed on the need to discuss hot issues and develop contingency plans for the most urgent situations, especially the situations in Ukraine, Syria and Libya.

In addition, Ms. Merkel also suggested that the two sides discuss the current status and prospects of bilateral relations, including cooperation in energy, trade, economy and culture.

Chancellor Merkel's visit to Sochi is her first return to Russia since attending the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II two years ago.

Russian experts say this is an opportunity for Ms. Merkel to mend the conflicts between the two countries that have existed since Moscow announced the annexation of the Crimean peninsula in March 2014. Germany has repeatedly imposed sanctions and economic embargoes on Russia./.

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(According to Ria Novosti)