Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, paid an official visit to the United Mexican States from February 15-16.

During the talks with Mexican Secretary of Foreign Relations Patricia Espinosa, a wide range of issues on the rich agenda of bilateral relations was discussed. Lavrov congratulated the Mexican side on its major events being marked this year – the 200th anniversary of the proclamation of independence and the 100th anniversary of the start of the Mexican Revolution – and pointed out the importance of getting ready for the celebration in December 2010 of the 120th anniversary of the establishment of Russian-Mexican diplomatic relations. The parties expressed satisfaction at the achieved high level of diplomatic dialogue and interaction within the framework of international and regional forums, and discussed the prospects for increasing bilateral cooperation in various fields.

The ministers spoke unanimously in favor of further streamlining the juridical base of bilateral relations and the need to undertake additional steps to facilitate the visa regime for the citizens of Russia and Mexico. They emphasized the importance of intensifying contacts between business representatives of the two countries.

A keen exchange of views also took place on a number of topical issues on the international agenda, including overcoming through collective efforts the consequences of the global economic and financial crisis; strengthening the role of the UN in contemporary conditions; Iran’s nuclear program, and other matters.

The Mexican side briefed on the soon-to-come Cancun summit of the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean Basin, which is expected to take decisions to advance regional integration.

The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation and the United Mexican States signed a Joint Statement at the conclusion of the visit.

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