Russia and Portugal interested in strengthening role of OSCE

Moscow and Lisbon are interested in keeping the efficient and active role of the OSCE in solving European problems, said Russian foreign minister Igor Ivanov after talks with his Portuguese counterpart Antonio Martins da Cruz.

The OSCE theme was discussed at the negotiations in the context of Portugal's chairing the organization this year, he said.

The talks focused on the OSCE activities in counteracting international terrorism, the minister pointed out. The parties agreed to cooperate closely while preparing the 10th session of the OSCE foreign ministers due in December in Lisbon, he added. "We are interested in the session to contribute to further strengthening of the OSCE role, and we will do our best to assist it," Ivanov said.