ROME. Nov 23 (Interfax) - Russia expects a swift verdict in the case of the Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, Riyadh is working constructively to that end, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Friday.
"It is necessary to complete the investigation as soon as possible. We note that the Saudi authorities are conducting this investigation, we note that they are also cooperating with Turkish authorities, and we will be expecting the final verdict to be pronounced soon," Lavrov said at a press conference in Rome.
The Washington Post columnist was killed on October 2 on the grounds of Saudi Arabia's consulate general in Istanbul. Turkey has launched an official inquiry.
At the time of his death, the consulate was hosting a delegation from Riyadh whose members are linked to Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman Al Saud.
Saudi authorities have denied any involvement. They have arrested and charged 21 people in connection with the murder. Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty for five of the suspects.