In an interview for the Soloviev Live YouTube channel, Naryshkin explained that the interaction between the intelligence services of the two countries in the fight against terrorism ‘once again confirms the objective necessity of good relations between Russia and the known West.’

According to statements disclosed on Monday by TASS news agency, the official considered that ties between Moscow and Washington are not impossible, ‘but the road to the establishment of good relations is very long, it will require a lot of effort and will from both sides.’

In that regard, he described the Russia-US presidential summit held in Geneva on June 16 as a modest first step in this direction. ‘It cannot be overestimated, but it cannot be underestimated either,’ he indicated.

The head of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service considered it likely in the future to meet with the head of the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), William Burns.

Naryshkin set out that they have had no contacts, but congratulated him for his appointment to the post.

‘Probably, now he is still getting to know his job duties, entering into function. I don’t exclude that he will be in contact later,’ he commented.

The SVR’s head said in a recent interview with TASS that Moscow and Washington continue exchanging data on the fight against terrorism, but such interaction is now less active than before.

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