Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced his country's support for the decision to establish a new CIS Plus working format.
"This will allow for the more active involvement of other states and international structures in cooperation with our organization," the Russian leader stated while addressing a restricted-format meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of State.
Putin thanked his counterparts for their support of Sergei Lebedev's candidacy for the post of CIS Secretary General, noting that he is a worthy candidate to continue in the role. The president also wished success to Turkmenistan, which will assume the chairmanship of the Commonwealth in 2026.
Putin emphasized the importance of coordination on the foreign policy track, considering external events. "In this context, we also consider the Joint Statement on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the UN's founding, submitted today for the council's approval, to be highly relevant," the president underscored.
The Russian leader also voiced support for deepening contacts between the Commonwealth and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). He stated that a prepared draft decision to grant the SCO observer status within the CIS is aimed precisely at this goal. Putin noted that it would be beneficial to leverage the potential of both organizations for the sustainable development of the region.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry
Based on materials from TASS