Russian President Vladimir Putin (Photo: rg.ru)

President Putin stressed the importance of maintaining bilateral ties despite the COVID-19 pandemic. He said he believes that the two countries will strengthen their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and help maintain peace, security and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

In his congratulatory greetings to US President-elect Joe Biden, Mr. Putin said Russia and the US can do more to increase regional and global security.

President Putin said in his message to French President Emmanuel Macron that 2020 was not an easy year, with many challenges from terrorism and the pandemic. He said he hopes for joint efforts to ensure Europe’s security.

The Russian President sent New Year greetings to Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II and Prime Minister Boris Johnson, saying cooperation will help resolve important problems of the era.