Russia's Lavrov Meets With Afghan Leaders

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met in Kabul today with Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Foreign Minister Rangin Dadfar Spanta.

Lavrov, who attended the official reopening of the Russian Embassy complex, said an agreement in principle was reached on settling Soviet-era debts owed to Moscow by Afghanistan.

He said a settlement would be reached in accordance with the rules of the Paris Club of government creditors.

Lavrov also said Russian energy firms are interested in possible investments in Afghanistan. He said settling the issue of Afghanistan's debt would "open the way" for further investment.

Lavrov also expressed concerns about increased drug trafficking from Afghanistan. He said Moscow is ready to extend assistance in the fields of education, reconstruction, and training security forces.

Spanta says today's talks also focused on regional and international issues -- including tensions about Iran's nuclear program.

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