Lavrov: New starting point in Greek-Russian

These talks "will give the opportunity for the bilateral dialogue to return to its smooth course," said the the top Russian diplomat.

"We are convinced", he continued, "that objective obstacles that would hinder the stable development of the Greek-Hellenic relations do not exist. We can increase joint efforts to deepen relations in all areas, including those of trade, economy and investment. Priorities must be the implementation of major joint projects, which will allow us to reach new levels of cooperation. "

Besides, the situation in the Balkans "is causing concern", according to Mr. Lavrov, who criticized NATO and the EU. that "they are stepping up efforts to" "ingest" the region, "with Kosovo being the main source of destabilization, as the Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation said. Moreover, "stability in the Mediterranean region is probably not feasible without a just solution to the chronic Palestinian problem" on the basis of UN resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.

Lavrov stressed that on October 19th, the constitutional changes were imposed by blackmail and bribery of MPs, with the direct involvement of foreign diplomats, including the US Ambassador there. "Now there are fierce attempts to get the process in its final form in early 2019," he added.

Finally, the Russian Foreign Ministry remains committed - as its head notes - to the "universal, fair, stable and sustainable settlement of the Cyprus problem".