Russia says ready for energy dialogue with Europe

SOCHI, Russia, Jan 21 (Reuters) Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia was ready for an open dialogue on energy with Europe based on all sides' interests after meeting German Chancellor Angela Merkel today.

Merkel said there was a need to improve communication with Russia to avoid ''irritations''.

Putin said he hoped all participants in energy talks would ''adhere to principles of equal interests''.

REUTERS LL RR RAI2220