"The two sides discussed measures to enhance operational safety for counter-ISIL [Daesh] coalition and Russian military forces operating in Syria, including the means to avoid accidents and unintended confrontation between coalition and Russian forces whenever the two sides operate in close proximity," the statement explained.
Cook noted that the officials had a constructive conversation and "the two sides agreed to continue safety discussions in this format in the future."
The video conference was co-chaired by Acting US Assistant Secretary for International Security Affairs Elissa Slotkin and Joint Staff Director for Strategic Plans and Policy Lt. Gen. Kenneth McKenzie, according to the statement.
Since September 2015, Russia has been conducting an aerial campaign in Syria against Daesh terror group on the request of Syrian President Bashar Assad.
Russian and US officials signed in October 2015 a Memorandum of Understanding concerning safety procedures for the two countries’ respective air operations in Syria.
A US-led coalition of some 65 nations has been carrying out airstrikes against Daesh in Syria since September 2014, but without the approval of the Syrian government or the UN Security Council.
The Islamic State, also known as Daesh, is a terrorist group that is outlawed in Russia, the United States ant many other countries.
