PRESS RELEASE

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Sergey Lavrov, received Tzipi Livni, Israel's opposition leader and head of the Kadima party, on October 28.

During the discussion of a number of issues relating to the situation in the Near and Middle East, the Russian side reiterated its focus on helping to achieve a just and comprehensive peace in the region which would enable Israel and an independent Palestinian state to coexist in good-neighborliness and security. A view about the inadmissibility of unilateral actions, including settlement activities, affecting final status issues, was voiced in this context.

Livni gave a high assessment of the vigorous efforts of Russia in promoting a long-term and reliable settlement in the Middle East.

Lavrov reaffirmed Russia's principled stance in favor of a politico-diplomatic unblocking of the situation around the Iranian nuclear program on the basis of implementing the accords reached when the 5+1 Group met with the representatives of Iran in Geneva on October 1.

In examining ways to strengthen Russian-Israeli relations, Lavrov and Livni expressed mutual satisfaction at the development of political dialogue at various levels and at the increased effectiveness of business cooperation.

October 28, 2009