SAINT PETERSBURG, December 26. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that he had an intensive discussion on bilateral and international issues with his Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) counterparts during his visit to St. Petersburg's cultural sites during the day.

"While moving from hall to hall, all of you, as well as me, thoroughly talked about current affairs of the bilateral, multilateral format. We also exchanged opinions on international affairs," Putin said while opening the informal CIS summit at the Konstantinovsky Palace.

The Russian president and the CIS leaders visited several park and palace complexes in the vicinity of St. Petersburg earlier in the day.

"We have been communicating with each other during the day, talking quite productively," Putin added.

He also noted that the outgoing year "was exceptionally active and rich for the CIS."

Following the meeting, Putin wished the CIS leaders a Happy New Year.

"I would like to warmly congratulate all of you on the coming New Year, as well as wish you and your families and friends, all citizens living in the CIS space strong health, happiness, well-being, peace and prosperity," the Russian leader wished.

He emphasized that he sees the priority task of the Russian presidency as preserving and strengthening close ties between the peoples of the CIS countries, as well as developing relations of friendship and good-neighborliness throughout the Commonwealth. "We are set for the densest work in this regard," he summarized.