ST. PETERSBURG, July 29. /TASS/. Moscow values the warm attitude of the Republic of the Congo and its leadership to Russia and is ready to foster relations between the two countries, Russian President Vladimir Putin said during talks with the republic’s President Denis Sassou Nguesso.

"Our bilateral ties with the Republic of the Congo are of a stable nature based on the traditions of friendship, mutual understanding and support," the Russian head of state said. "Mr. President, we highly value the fact that you give your personal attention to the bolstering of bilateral political dialogue," Putin told the Congolese president noting that this is his fourth visit to Russia. According to Putin, following Sassou Nguesso’s 2019 visit, "an additional impetus was given to cooperation in the field of nuclear power and hydropower, in the field of hydrocarbon extraction." According to the Russian president, in January-April 2023, the volume of bilateral trade increased by 85%. He noted that leading Russian companies are working effectively in the republic and several major projects are in the works.

Putin vowed to continue the practice of educating Congolese students at leading Russian universities using state funding. He noted that in the 2023-2024 school year, the number of state scholarships for the Republic of the Congo increased to 250.

According to the Russian leader, the two countries "interact productively at the UN and other international venues." He noted that the republic took part in the African mission on the Ukrainian settlement, the second meeting with which took place in St. Petersburg on Friday. "In my opinion, that was a very sincere, useful discussion," Putin noted. He also said that the July 27-28 Russia-Africa Summit "was held at a very good level and with good results," thanking his Congolese counterpart for coming to Russia.