MOSCOW, August 29. /ITAR-TASS/. Russia must focus on consolidating its positions in the Arctic region, where the country's interests in many spheres are concentrated, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday.

Putin said Russia will defend its interests in the Arctic, acting withing the international law and seeking compromise with its partners.

He said the Arctic not only had abundant supplies of mineral resources but also played an important role in Russia's national security.