AvtoVAZ said there were no contacts with Renault

AvtoVAZ is not currently negotiating with Renault. This was reported to Izvestia on February 20 by the press service of the Togliatti company in response to a question whether negotiations with the former partner on its return to Russia are now underway.

"AvtoVAZ currently has no contacts with the former partner," the manufacturer's press service said.

Earlier in the day it was reported that Renault CEO Luca de Meo said that the company does not rule out a return to Russia. According to the Financial Times, he said that buying out a controlling stake in AvtoVAZ is not a priority, but the brand's management is open to discussing business opportunities.

Renault sold its Russian business and 68 percent stake in AvtoVAZ in 2022, but retained the option to buy back its stake within six years.

Third run: Korean cars return to Russia

SsangYong models under a new brand will be assembled in Kaliningrad

Earlier on February 20, the head of the Ministry of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov said that the Western car industry, which left Russia, is not expected back "with open arms".

On February 14, it was reported that Hyundai Motor Concern may consider the option of buying back the plant in St. Petersburg and will make a decision on this by the end of 2025.