NOVO-OGARYOVO, March 14. /TASS/. The text of the future Agreement on Strategic Partnership and Cooperation between Russia and Venezuela has been finalized and is ready for signing, Russian President Vladimir Putin said during video talks with his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro.

"I am pleased to note that a strategic partnership and cooperation agreement has been fully settled, which will create a strong foundation for further expansion of multifaceted ties in the long term," the Russian leader noted.

"It could be signed during your visit to Russia at a time convenient for you," he added.

"For our part, we are doing and will do everything possible to give an even closer and more comprehensive character to our joint work in the trade, economic, technical, cultural and humanitarian spheres," Putin said. "Further strengthening of the Russian-Venezuelan strategic partnership in all areas undoubtedly meets the interests of the harmonious development of both our states," Putin added, calling Maduro a friend and colleague.