Putin vows to perform presidential duties until last moment

By Staff
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Google Oneindia News

Moscow, Sept 10 (UNI) Russian President Vladimir Putin today vowed to perform his presidential duties until the very last moment of his term in office.

''Ice hockey is one of the most beloved sports in our country.

We know how real pros play. They play until the very last second,'' Mr Putin told Russian reporters during his visit to the UAE.

''I said in my annual state of the nation address that I will do the same, and I expect the government and the presidential administration to follow suit,'' Interfax news agency reported quoting him as saying.

Mr Putin has already announced he will not contest the presidential election next March after his two consecutive terms.

On the issue of the planned deployment by the US missile shield in Europe, he said it could still be resolved, pointing to negotiations with his US counterpart George W Bush.

''There is still time, and we are optimistic,'' the President said.

As for the differences over ABM between Russia and the US, he said, ''We also have differences on certain international and economic issues. This is only natural. It is most important to resolve these differences without sabre-rattling or confrontation,'' he stressed.

Mr Putin arrived in Abu Dhabi today, on his visit to the UAE.

This is the first visit of a Russian leader to the Gulf state in 35 years.

He will discuss with his UAE counterpart Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahayan the issues relating to the development of bilateral trade and investment cooperation, the oil and gas sector, energy, metallurgy, transport, high-technology, among others.

''One of the main issues to be discussed will be the development of trade and economic investment cooperation,'' Mr Putin's special aide on foreign affairs Sergei Prikhodko told RIA Novosti news agency.

Mr Prikhodko said the talks would also cover international issues, including security issues in the Persian Gulf, the situation in Iraq and Palestinian territories, and Iran's nuclear dossier.

A number of bilateral documents are expected to be signed between the two countries.

UNI

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