Senator Hillary Clinton has been nominated by president-elect Barack Obama to become secretary of state in his administration. Obama is due to be inaugurated as president on January 20.
In answering a question as to whether Clinton would be a more convenient partner for Russia, Lavrov said, "I am sure that this is the case. Clinton has a lot of experience behind her, including international experience and political heft."
"I believe it is very important to possess these qualities right now at a time when we need to solve numerous pressing issues," he continued.
Russia's top diplomat also noted that Clinton, the wife of former U.S. president Bill Clinton, was well-versed in many issues in regard to international relations.
"We are ready to work with any administration. What is important is to hold an open and honest dialogue based on mutual respect," he added.
Russia and the U.S. have been at loggerheads recently over a number of issues, including U.S. plans for a missile shield in central Europe, NATO expansion, and Russia's brief war with Georgia in August.
