Russia seeks equal, mutually beneficial relations with all countries - Lavrov
ASTANA. Oct 6 (Interfax) - Russia seeks equal and mutually beneficial relations with all countries and integration unions, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said at an international forum of Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) alumni in Astana on Friday.
The minister is paying an official visit to Astana on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and Kazakhstan.
"Russia is carrying out an active foreign policy and promoting a unifying, balanced, and future-oriented agenda aimed at establishing equal and mutually beneficial relations with all countries and integration unions without exception on the basis of compliance with principles of international law, respect for each other's interests, and non-interference in internal affairs," Lavrov said.
This very attitude, "when no one forces one's view on others and when the values of truth and justice and the ability to think freely are prioritized," is characteristic of MGIMO, he said.
"Hopefully, the busy program of this forum will not just revive the spirit of MGIMO and recreate its unique atmosphere but also address new initiatives which are bound to ensure trust and mutual understanding and deepen cooperation between countries and peoples," Lavrov said.