( dpa ) - The United States and Russia Thursday said they would launch a new economic dialogue to address trade and investment between the two major world economies.
In a joint statement the two countries said the first meeting would be held in Washington in the spring, but gave few specifics on the nature of the talks.
Political relations between the two one-time Cold War foes have been tense at times in the past year amid moves by Vladimir Putin regarded by many as undermining democracy and free elections, which will be held March 2.
"Given the increased investment and trade between our two countries, and Russia's growing importance in the world, the United States and Russia will establish a formal economic dialogue to discuss issues of mutual interest," the statement said.
The meetings would include appropriate government agencies and members of the business communities of both nations.