Russia suggests Lavrov-Tillerson meeting in Ethiopia this week

Addis Ababa, March 5, 2018 (FBC) – Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Monday his country had suggested a meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson in Ethiopia this week, Reuters quoted RIA news agency as saying.

Both men are expected to make Africa trips this week and Ryabkov was cited as saying that Moscow had proposed they hold talks in Ethiopia at the end of the week.

Tillerson is due to arrive in Ethiopia tomorrow. His working visit is aimed at exchanging views on aspects of peace and security in the Horn of Africa and the continent at large.

It is meant to discuss on ways to fight against terrorism as well as looking for ways to further US-Africa cooperation on democracy and development.

Similarly, Russia’s Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, is expected to arrive in Addis Ababa on March 8, 2018. His visit is aimed at cementing the existing relations between the two countries.

During his stay in Addis Ababa, Lavrov will review implementation of agreements at the 5th Joint Commission of Ethiopia and Russia.

The two countries had previously inked agreements to cooperate in education, science, agriculture, and other sectors.