US withdrawal from Afghanistan important issue for Russia: Putin

MOSCOW

The Russian president on Thursday said the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan is an important issue for Russia.

Speaking at a meeting in Moscow, Vladimir Putin pointed out that Afghanistan has a common border with Tajikistan where Russia has its military base, and Tajikistan is also a member of the Russia-led military bloc – Collective Security Treaty Organization.

"American troops are withdrawing from Afghanistan. This is very close to us, we have a military base in Tajikistan. How we will build relations in this area, how we will ensure security in the region – this is a very important practical issue," he said.

Putin confirmed that this topic was on the agenda of his meeting with his US counterpart in Geneva on Wednesday. The two met for the first time since Joe Biden assumed charge on Jan. 20.

They discussed arms control, global and cybersecurity, regional conflicts and cooperation in the Arctic.

Biden 'focused, energetic'

Sharing his personal impressions about Biden, Putin said the US president is different from how he is shown in the media.

Putin recalled that despite a long journey and jet lag, Biden was energetic both physically and mentally.

"Biden is a professional. And you need to work very carefully with him ... he is focused, understands what he wants to achieve. And he does it very skillfully. You can feel it right away."

In general, the atmosphere was quite "well-wishing" and we were able to understand each other, our positions on key issues, the Russian president said.