MOSCOW (AFP)-- Russia welcomes offers made by the U.S. administration of President Barack Obama to talk with Iran, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday at a meeting with EU officials.

“We expect that the United States, considering the fresh approach that seems to be noticeable in regard to Iran, will be able to make a more effective contribution,” said Lavrov.
“We attach particular significance to the declared intention of the new administration in Washington to start direct dialogue with Iran,” he said at a news conference with EU officials.
“We’re sure this will help the common efforts of the six” international powers dealing with the Iranian nuclear case, he added.