Bettel to meet Putin in 2-day Russia visit

(ADW) Prime Minister Xavier Bettel flew on Monday morning for a two-day visit to Russia. On the first day he was set to meet Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, followed by a meeting with Vladimir Putin, before the Russian President invites Bettel for a working lunch.

Currently, the Grand Duchy holds the presidency of the Council of the EU meaning that in addition to bilateral subjects, EU's relations with Russia are also on the programme.

In particular the civil war in Syria and the Ukraine conflict are due to be discussed.

Last week Bettel stated that the war in Syria can only be resolved with Russia and therefore the goal is to develop a common strategic goal.

Russia currently exerts airstrikes in Syria, despite worldwide criticism. Moscow has justified them as the fight against terrorists of the so-called Islamic state.

In the Ukraine conflict, Bettel is also pushing for a coordinated approach in the implementation of the peace agreement set in Minsk in February.

Do not miss the news - sign up to receive the wort.lu newsletter in English delivered to your inbox six days a week.