ISTANBUL

Russia and the US discussed the possibility of restoring direct air travel during a business breakfast hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Russia (AmCham) at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, according to Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) head Kirill Dmitriev.

Dmitriev on Wednesday told journalists that the two sides addressed "many important, practical, positive issues," including resuming direct flights between the two countries.

The meeting also discussed US companies' plans to expand their presence in the Russian market and support joint technological ventures.

“Venture investors from the USA who came to the forum want to invest in Russian technologies and develop technological projects,” Dmitriev noted.

He added that participants explored ways to remove restrictions complicating business activities and exports between Russia and the US.

“A very practical dialogue,” Dmitriev said, expressing appreciation to AmCham President Robert Agee for facilitating “constructive, creative, correct work” on technical but important matters.

The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum runs from June 18 to 21.