"The OSCE is still one of very few organizations, where the dialogue between the West and Russia is still taking place. That's why we are committed to use this opportunity. The negotiations started yesterday, they will continue by tomorrow noon in the presence of almost 50 ministers from 57 OSCE member states. I doubt that there is another platform, where such a dialogue could take place," Erler, who is also the German government's point man for Russia and Central Asia, told reporters.
Since 2014, relations between Russia and the West deteriorated amid the crisis in Ukraine. Washington and their allies have introduced several rounds of anti-Russia sanctions since Crimea became part of Russia in 2014 and over Moscow's alleged involvement in the Ukrainian conflict. Russia has repeatedly refuted the allegations, warning that the Western sanctions are counterproductive and undermine global stability.
The 23rd Ministerial Council of the OSCE kicked off earlier in the day and is expected to wrap up on Friday. The event has gathered together diplomats from the OSCE participating states, including Russia and Germany, as well as from 11 partners for cooperation to discuss major security issues.
