Russian Finance Minister Visits Saudi Arabia Ahead of U.S.-Russia Talks
RIYADH, February 18, 2025 (SAUDI ARABIA BREAKING NEWS) – Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov arrived in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, ahead of highly anticipated talks between Russian and U.S. officials set to take place in the Kingdom next week.
Siluanov attended the AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies, an event organized by the Saudi Ministry of Finance in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). His visit comes amid intensifying diplomatic efforts to seek a resolution to the nearly three-year war in Ukraine.
Key Diplomatic Engagements
As part of Russia’s regional engagements, First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, Finance Minister Siluanov, and Central Bank Governor Elvira Nabiullina held talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on February 15, signaling Moscow’s efforts to strengthen economic and political ties with Gulf nations.
During the AlUla conference, Siluanov emphasized Russia’s commitment to debt restructuring, stating:"Over the last 25 years, we have restructured the debt of 22 countries, amounting to almost $30 billion. A similar amount has been restructured through bilateral agreements."
Upcoming U.S.-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia
The U.S.-Russia discussions in Riyadh will mark a pivotal diplomatic development, as officials from both nations prepare for direct negotiations on ending the war in Ukraine. According to sources, the talks remain fluid, with final details on delegations and agenda still being finalized.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to play a central role as a neutral mediator, providing a diplomatic platform for high-stakes negotiations aimed at global stability and economic cooperation.