The situation in Afghanistan in the wake of the Taliban taking power in that country was reviewed in depth. Both presidents noted the importance of ensuring the safety of civilians and addressing pressing humanitarian challenges, and expressed a willingness to help establish peace and stability in Afghanistan through cooperation, including within the framework of the UN Security Council and the G20.
The situation related to the Iranian nuclear programme was touched upon. The leaders spoke in favour of continuing talks on resuming the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which is a weighty factor in non-proliferation matters.
At the request of Emmanuel Macron, Vladimir Putin apprised him of the status of the implementation of the trilateral statements on Nagorno-Karabakh of November 9, 2020, and January 11, 2021. It was stated that the situation in the region is stable overall, and steps are being taken to restore economic and transport links in the South Caucasus and to meet the humanitarian needs of the population. Mutual commitment was expressed for further joint work on various aspects of the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement, primarily, within the OSCE Minsk Group.
There was an exchange of views on matters of resolving the internal Ukrainian crisis. Concern was expressed over continuing tension in southeastern Ukraine. Vladimir Putin noted the destructive actions by Kiev, which has recently been purposefully aggravating the situation on the contact line and coming up with numerous provocative legislative initiatives that directly contradict the Minsk agreements.
The need was emphasised for the Kiev authorities to implement all previous agreements, primarily, the 2015 Minsk Package of Measures as the only viable foundation for a settlement. In this regard, both presidents reaffirmed their commitment to coordinate Russia and France’s efforts in the Normandy format.
A number of other regional matters, including those in Africa, were discussed.
It was agreed to maintain personal contact.