MOSCOW, December 8. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to a number of Middle Eastern countries has become the subject of close attention in the world, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

"Obviously, it [the tour] has become a subject of close attention for many in the world, for many states, especially the states of the region," he said, answering a corresponding question from Izvestia.

According to Peskov, "this is quite natural" because Russia is actively developing relations with countries that show interest in further cooperation. "And precisely the [United Arab] Emirates and Saudi Arabia are the countries with which we have the most developed dialogue," the Kremlin spokesman added.

The day before, Putin held talks with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. They concluded a series of meetings on the Middle East. On Wednesday, the Russian leader visited Abu Dhabi and Riyadh, where he spoke with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud.

On Thursday, Putin spoke with Omani Crown Prince and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Theyazin Bin Haitham Al Said on the sidelines of the 14th VTB Investment Forum "Russia Calling!"