Speaking at a ceremony of presentation of credentials of ambassadors from more than a dozen countries, Putin congratulated the American people for the end of elections.

‘We have followed closely the whole American election campaign and the statements made by Trump, and although we know it will not be an easy road, we expect a reestablishment of normal relations with (the United States),’ Putin said.

‘The deterioration of ties was not our fault, but we are willing and wish to develop normal ties with the United States and, we repeat, we know it will not be an easy road, but we are willing to contribute on our part,’ he said.

‘We will do everything within our reach for a stable development of relations between Russia and the United States,’ said Putin.

‘That will be beneficial for Russia and the United States,’ he said.

‘But it will also help create a relaxed atmosphere in the international arena, taking into account the responsibility of both nations in their mission to ensure stability and security in the world,’ he said.

(Prensa Latina)

Putin stated that he recalled “with affection” his last visit to Cuba, in 2014. In addition, he described diplomatic relations between Russia and the Island as long and historic, with the 55th anniversary of the reestablishment of said ties to be celebrated this Friday.

The Army General, who entered the conference room moments before Putin and greeted the journalists gathered there in Russian, thanked the host President for inviting him on date as historic as that of “the great victory of the people of the former Soviet Union.” He reiterated that for him it was impossible no to be present for the festivities and commented on the activities being carried out in Cuba in honor of such an important date.

He made particular reference to the presence of Serguei Naryshkin, Chairman of the State Duma, currently visiting Havana. In addition, he recalled Putin’s visit to Cuba in July 2014, and the important agreements – signed on that occasion – regarding the promotion of bilateral relations in spheres ranging from culture, industry, health, international information security, trade and natural disasters relief, among others.

After these statements, which were immediately disseminated by the press, Raúl and Putin held a private meeting, accompanied by their respective delegations.

After the meeting, Raúl presented the Russian president with an art work by Alexis Leyva Machado (Kcho), which depicts an old PKP rifle (known as Pecheneg) with roses protruding from its barrel and which at its base, on three discs made from bullets, is written: “The Soviet victory over fascism is the foundation of the new Russia.”

On Friday, May 9, the Cuban President is scheduled to meet Patriarch Kirill I of Moscow, highest authority of the Russian Orthodox Church, as he did during his 2009 official visit.

Leticia Martínez, Granma