Saudi crown prince, Russia’s Lavrov discuss OPEC+ cooperation in Riyadh

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, on Monday, during an official visit to Saudi Arabia. 

The meeting, reported by both the Russian and Saudi foreign ministries, focused on regional and international developments, efforts to strengthen security and stability, and matters of mutual interest.

Lavrov conveyed greetings from Russian President Vladimir Putin to Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and the Crown Prince. 

Key topics discussed included the Israel-Palestinian conflict and energy cooperation. 

Both sides expressed satisfaction with their ongoing collaboration within the OPEC+ framework, noting its importance in maintaining balance in the global energy market, added the SPA report.

A statement emphasised that recent decisions within OPEC+ reflect growing stability and independence in the coordination among oil-exporting nations. It was emphasised that the decisions taken recently indicate the growing stability and independence of this unique coordination mechanism of oil-exporting countries, its efficiency and relevance for maintaining the balance of supply and demand in the global energy market.

Meanwhile, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said on X that both foreign ministers reviewed bilateral ties and ways to improve joint cooperation, and also discussed the latest developments on the regional and international agenda.

#Riyadh | Foreign Minister HH Prince @FaisalbinFarhan met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov 🇸🇦 🇷🇺 at the headquarters of the #GCC General Secretariat. pic.twitter.com/FmAPLubJ59

— Foreign Ministry 🇸🇦 (@KSAmofaEN) September 9, 2024

The Saudi delegation included Minister of National Guard Prince Abdullah bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and National Security Adviser Dr Musaed bin Mohammed Al-Aiban. On the Russian side, Ambassador Sergey Kozlov and other senior officials were present.

Lavrov also held talks with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, ahead of the 7th ministerial meeting of the Russia-GCC Strategic Dialogue.

Lavrov arrived in Saudi Arabia on Sunday for the official visit.

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