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Russia wants Central Asia to join import substitution effort, Putin says

As the Russian leader said, Moscow is open to strengthening multi-aspect cooperation with its Central Asian friends

© Ramil Sitdikov/POOL/TASS

ASTANA, October 14. /TASS/. Moscow has set its sights on getting Central Asian nations on board Russia's import substitution programs, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at the Russia - Central Asia summit.

"We are interested in your countries joining large-scale Russian initiatives on import substitution and other programs. I am confident that it will benefit the development of all our economies, while acquiring new skills," the Russian leader emphasized.

Moscow is open to strengthening multi-aspect cooperation "with [our] Central Asian friends," particularly in order to work towards creating new manufacturing and marketing chains, and building up alternative logistical ties, Putin stressed.

Russia’s interaction with the five Central Asian states is developing at a good pace, Putin noted. The trade turnover between Russia and countries of the region doubled and in the first half of this year, it increased by 16%, the President said. "Russia is the leading investor in the economies of Central Asian countries," Putin added.

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Foreign policy Vladimir Putin

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