US grateful to Putin for directness, detailed explanations of Russia’s position on international issues - Kerry

SOCHI, May 13. /TASS/. US Secretary of State John Kerry has thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for his "directness and detailed explanations of Russia’s position" in respect to a number of international issues. After a meeting with Putin and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Russia's Black Sea resort city of Sochi, the US top diplomat stressed that this was an important visit that occurred at an important time. "I'm grateful to President Putin for the significant amount of time he dedicated to today's discussions," Kerry said. "There is no substitute for direct talks with key decisions makers," he added. Kerry said President Barack Obama is thankful to Russia for its readiness to participate in such a dialogue when the exchange of views is very important now. He explained that the sides are facing a great number of problems that need to be solved. Kerry’s last visit to Russia took place in May 2013. However, the US state secretary continues to maintain regular contact with the Russian foreign minister, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Rybakov told TASS earlier in the day. Read more