Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s participation in a joint meeting of three State Duma committees

On February 6, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov attended a joint meeting of the foreign affairs committee, the committee on CIS affairs, Eurasian integration and relations with compatriots, and the oversight committee at the State Duma of the Federal Assembly. The heads of the parliamentary parties were also invited to attend. The meeting took place ahead of the Government Hour session to be held at the lower house of parliament on February 19 and focused on current aspects of Russia’s foreign policy.

Sergey Lavrov pointed out that, due to such regular, meaningful and trustful exchanges, it is possible to compare notes on the entire range of issues pertaining to Russia’s relations with foreign states and international organisations in real time. This kind of interaction with State Duma deputies contributes to improving the Foreign Ministry’s efficiency.

Answering the parliamentarians’ questions, the minister touched upon the key trends in the formation of a multipolar world, emphasised the growing influence of the states of the Global South and East on world politics, and the importance of establishing mechanisms for multifaceted cooperation that are resistant to destructive moves by unfriendly countries.

During the ensuing discussion, the participants outlined further steps towards achieving Russia’s foreign policy objectives, and identified priorities for joint efforts by the legislative and executive branches of power aimed at creating favourable and, above all, safe conditions for Russia’s dynamic development, for strengthening its sovereignty and improving the quality of life of Russian people.