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In his remarks at the meeting, Dmitry Medvedev noted that a paradigm shift is taking place in international relations which opens a unique opportunity to put Russia’s foreign policy instruments to the most effective use possible to assist the country’s modernisation.

The President called for more effective use of the possibilities that Russia’s diplomacy and foreign policy offer, for pursuing the country’s economic and social objectives.

Industrial modernisation, designing an innovative economy, and helping Russian goods to enter global and regional markets are among the major priorities today, the President said.

Mr Medvedev outlined the need to create modernisation alliances with international partners, above all with countries such as Germany, France, Italy, the European Union in general, and also the USA. Also in the interests of national economic development Russian diplomatic efforts must focus too on strengthening cooperation with countries in the Asia-Pacific region, BRIC, and ASEAN. 

Following the meeting, the President presented state decorations to Russian diplomats. In particular, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov was awarded the Order for Services to the Fatherland, II degree.

Mr Medvedev also talked with diplomatic service veterans and young diplomats.

Meetings of Russian ambassadors and permanent representatives take place once every two years and are also attended by staff at the Foreign Ministry’s central offices, the senior officials of the Presidential Executive Office, government members, and representatives of ministries and agencies involved in international cooperation.

Russia has ties with 180 nations and has 243 diplomatic missions and consular offices in 142 countries.