The importance of maintaining diplomatic relations and dialogue with Russia was noted by Finnish FM Pekka Haavisto during a conversation with Russian reporters on Saturday, RIA Novosti reported.

The Finnish FM will hold talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov on Monday in St. Petersburg.

It is very important to maintain diplomatic relations and communication in all situations, including on very complex topics, as, for example, Finland and Russia do, the minister said.

Haavisto believes that in the event of a possible rupture of relations between Russia and the EU, this would be a negative turn.

Also, the Finnish minister declined to comment on the likelihood of possible EU sanctions on Russia.

Lavrov said earlier that Moscow is ready to sever relations with the European Union if there are sanctions on its part that create risks for sensitive areas of the economy.