By Elena Teslova
MOSCOW (AA) - Moscow and Washington have discussed proposals to lift economic sanctions on Russia at the level of business representatives, Alexander Shokhin, head of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (RSPP), said on Friday.
Shokhin told reporters in Moscow that he met Robert Agee, head of the American Chamber of Commerce, "a couple of weeks ago."
During their discussion, Agee expressed his intention to compile a list of priorities for the easing of sanctions, he said.
"We supported some of the priorities he mentioned. For instance, civil aviation, specifically, spare parts, components, and maintenance for civilian aircraft. These matters are directly related to public safety and should be placed at the top of the list," Shokhin said.
He added that Russia would also welcome the reintegration of Russian banks into the SWIFT system and the normalization of financial and settlement operations.
However, he acknowledged that implementing such measures would be a significant challenge.
"Naturally, we fully support addressing these issues if they are designated for discussion. In particular, we believe that environmental projects should be exempt from sanctions. This includes clean energy equipment, as well as technologies for offshore and Arctic operations," he said.
Shokhin also highlighted restrictions in the pharmaceutical sector that hinder investment in research and development for companies operating in Russia.
"Therefore, we strongly support the initiative to prepare a 'White Book' for US authorities," he stated.
"Of course, our discussions are part of an ongoing dialogue. As a general note, (former US President Donald) Trump has said he plans to meet with (Russian President Vladimir) Putin within a month and a half. It would be prudent to finalize the document by March to ensure it is ready in time," he added.
Shokhin emphasized that proposals for lifting restrictions will be presented to the American side ahead of the anticipated meeting between the Russian and American leaders.
The US, along with the EU, imposed sanctions on Russia after its war on Ukraine in February 2022. The Trump administration, however, has called for a deal to end the conflict and improve bilateral relations.