Putin highlights “special relations” between Russia, CIS states

Russia maintains “special relations” with countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), President Vladimir Putin said during a meeting of the Security Council’s permanent members.

Putin discussed cooperation with CIS member states during the session, stressing the long-standing historical, economic, and cultural ties between them, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

He said Russia’s relationships with these countries are based on decades of cooperation and proximity.

“We have always had, currently have, and, I am sure, will continue to have a special relationship with them,” he said, adding that this is due in part to extensive economic links and shared regional interests.

Putin also pointed to humanitarian and personal connections between populations across the region, noting cultural ties and family relationships across borders.

By Sabina Mammadli