Putin invites Macron to discuss Ukraine, Libya, Syria
MOSCOW. June 26 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has invited his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron to discuss the situation in Ukraine and in Libya and Syria.
"We'll certainly talk about the growing explosive potential in hotspots. We'll also probably talk about problems of Ukraine, in the Balkans, about the situation in Syria and in Libya - I know you are concerned and alarmed about it," Putin said during a videoconference with Macron on Friday.
Putin mentioned the fact that the United Nations Charter was signed 75 years before, on June 26, 1945.
"This should remind us that it's always important to combine efforts in combating common problems and common threats. If we want to achieve positive results, we should combine our efforts," Putin said.
Macron said in response that the current crisis highlights the importance of cooperation on the expanse stretching from Lisbon to Vladivostok.
"I believe the crisis we are passing through, as well as other regional crises, show the importance of the European expanse in the broad sense - from Lisbon to Vladivostok. This is a genuine expanse of cooperation and peace. We understand the importance of this and of the challenges facing us," he said.
Macron welcomed Putin's proposal that the two discuss a number of relevant issues. "We should bear in mind three objectives. This is the provision of tangible conditions for our dialogue on security, both a bilateral and a multilateral one. It's also important for us to address the agenda of crises, particularly the situation in Libya, Ukraine, and Syria," he said.
The third objective mentioned by Macron is "long-term cooperation, including that on healthcare, economy, and environment protection."
"And you've mentioned that our video conversation today is taking place on the 75th anniversary of the San Francisco Charter, which was created for unity and closer relations. And this adds even more sense to our common project, namely to bring together the five permanent Security Council members," he said.