Russia-Guinea-Bissau Talks Lay Foundation for New Stage in Relations — Minister

 Guinea-Bissau's Foreign Minister Fatoumata Djau expressed confidence that the talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov have laid the foundation for a new stage in relations between the two countries.

According to Djau, the meeting reflected the long-standing friendship between the two nations and confirmed mutual commitment to further strengthening cooperation.

"[The talks] reflect our commitment to further strengthening our relations, which have stood the test of time and continue to develop in line with today's realities. ... I wish to express my confidence that today's talks have laid the foundations for a new stage in relations between our countries," the minister stated.

She noted that the sides discussed prospects for expanding cooperation in the areas of agriculture, food security, fisheries, higher education, scientific research, and healthcare.

"We also agreed that it is important to develop our economic ties, foster closer links between our institutions, universities, business communities, and create the necessary conditions for innovation, investment, and the exchange of knowledge and experience," Djau added.

The minister emphasized the importance of further strengthening political dialogue and developing cooperation between state institutions of the two countries, as well as implementing joint initiatives capable of delivering practical results and benefits for both Russia and Guinea-Bissau.

Djau is in Moscow on a working visit. Earlier, Lavrov reported that the minister confirmed the participation of Guinea-Bissau's transitional president, General Umaro Sissoco Embaló, in the Russia-Africa Summit, which will take place in Moscow in October.