On November 15, 2016, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin had his first telephone conversation with the U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.

The Russian President once again congratulated the U.S. President-elect on his victory in the presidential elections, wished him success in implementing his election platform, and said he was ready to develop a dialogue of partnership with the new administration on the principles of equality, mutual respect, and non-interference in each other’s domestic affairs.

During the conversation, President Putin and Mr. Trump not only agreed that the state of bilateral relations was unsatisfactory, but also expressed support for active joint efforts to normalize relations and pursue constructive cooperation on the broadest possible range of issues. They emphasized the importance of establishing a reliable foundation for bilateral ties by developing trade and the economic component of the U.S.-Russia relationship.

The leaders recognized that the year 2017 will mark the 210th anniversary since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and the United States, an occasion that should encourage a return to pragmatic, mutually-rewarding cooperation in the interests of both countries, as well as global stability and security.

President Putin and Mr. Trump both spoke of the need to work together in the struggle against international terrorism and extremism, the number one common enemy. In this context, they discussed issues related to solving the crisis in Syria. The two leaders also agreed to maintain contact by phone and to arrange a meeting in person in the future, with preparations to be conducted by the representatives of both sides.