Russia doesn t seek confrontation with other countries: Putin

Moscow Dec 23 (IANS) Russia does not and will not seek confrontation with any other country President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday.

"We will continue to pursue an open and honest foreign policy ... We are ready to work with all countries -- in the West and in the East -- on the principles of trust and equality " he said in his speech at the 17th congress of the ruling United Russia party here reported Xinhua.

Putin said Russia will work with its partners to strengthen the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) and build a "great Eurasian partnership".

The EEU which comprises Armenia Belarus Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan and Russia is an economic bloc aiming to optimize the flow of goods and services among its members.

Earlier this month Putin announced his intention to seek a fourth presidential term and contest the election slated for March 18 2018. He is widely expected to win by a landslide.

--IANS
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