Vitaly Churkin: "Russia prepared for dialogue with Georgia"

Russia hopes to have constructive cooperation with the United States in the United Nations Organization during Obama`s presidency - Russian ambassador to the UN Vitally Churkin has told the Nezavisimaya Gazeta.

Churkin also touched the Georgia-Russia crisis. He said Russia expected very noisy and sharp debates at the UN Security Council session on February15, where the members would debate on extension of the UNOMIG mandate.

Russia demands modification of the UNOMIG mandate after it recognized the independence of Georgia`s breakaway regions, Abkhazia and so-called South Ossetia. Russia urges the UN to send independent missions to these regions and to Georgia.

Churkin also said he had not met with Georgia`s new delegation to the UN yet, however, Russia was prepared to launch negotiations with Georgia in case they agree on dialogue.

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