Synopsis
On April 10, 2023, Russia and the US initiated the second round of consultations in Istanbul, focusing on embassy operations normalization, diplomatic property return, and issues affecting bilateral relations. Led by ambassadors from both nations, the meeting aims to address numerous diplomatic challenges and enhance cooperation.Key Takeaways
- Second round of talks between Russia and the US in Istanbul.
- Focus on normalizing embassy operations and resolving diplomatic issues.
- Discussion of illegally seized diplomatic properties.
- Agreements on joint measures for uninterrupted financing of diplomatic missions.
- Continued diplomatic engagement between both countries.
Istanbul, April 10 (NationPress) On Thursday, Russia and the United States commenced the second round of discussions in Istanbul, concentrating on the normalization of the operations of their respective embassies.
The Russian delegation is led by Alexander Darchiev, Moscow’s Ambassador to Washington, while the US delegation is directed by Sonata Coulter, the Deputy Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs.
The dialogues between the two delegations, occurring at the Russian Consulate General in Istanbul, are expected to last several hours, as per reports.
According to a source quoted by Russia's state-run news agency TASS, “We should mention that the significant portion of the discussions is already completed, but overall, the negotiations may extend for four to five hours.”
As stated by Darchiev, Russia is prepared for a serious dialogue with the United States concerning the return of diplomatic property that has been wrongfully seized by Washington.
The agenda also encompasses topics such as the movement of diplomats within the host country, visa and financial limitations.
“This is about addressing the 'toxic legacy' of the previous US administration, which enforced stringent restrictions on the operations of Russian diplomatic missions in the United States,” Darchiev commented.
The initial round of Russia-US consultations took place at the residence of the US Consul General in Istanbul on February 27 and lasted more than six hours.
Following the conclusion of the first meeting, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that Moscow and Washington had concurred on joint measures to secure the uninterrupted financing of diplomatic missions.
The ministry further noted that both sides discussed methods to resolve “numerous irritants” in their bilateral relations.
“Joint measures were agreed upon to ensure the unobstructed financing of the activities of the diplomatic missions of Russia and the United States on a reciprocal basis, and to establish suitable conditions for diplomats to fulfill their official responsibilities,” it stated.
Both parties agreed on mutual steps to guarantee the unhindered financing of their diplomatic missions and to create favorable conditions for diplomats to perform their duties.
Moscow also raised concerns regarding its diplomatic property in the US, specifically six real estate assets that were “illegally seized” between 2016 and 2018.
Additionally, Russia suggested that the US contemplate reinstating direct flights and underscored the necessity for tangible outcomes that would assist in enhancing bilateral relations for the benefit of both nations, according to statements made.
Moscow and Washington have committed to continuing their diplomatic engagements, as detailed in the statement.
Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, remarked that officials in Istanbul “agreed on collective measures to ensure the uninterrupted financing of diplomatic missions in both countries and to create suitable environments for diplomats to effectively execute their duties.”
Over the last decade, Russia and the US have frequently expelled each other's diplomats, leading to a significant reduction in their embassy staffing levels.
