MOSCOW, September 9. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has discussed efforts to form a common defense space with his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko, as he himself said at a press conference following Thursday’s talks.

"Today, we discussed issues related to forming a common defense space and ensuring security along our borders," he pointed out.

According to Putin, "in this regard, the upcoming joint military exercise Zapad-2021, which will take place in Russia and Belarus, is very important."

The drills are scheduled to take place on September 10-16.