Putin and Palestinian president to meet

Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet with his Palestinian counterpart Mahmoud Abbas on Aug. 13, the Kremlin press service reports.

“In addition to the discussion of issues of further development of bilateral cooperation, an exchange of views on the situation in the Middle East is expected in the light of the present deterioration of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the unprecedented humanitarian disaster in the Gaza Strip,” the press service said.

On Aug. 6, Abbas announced his intention to visit Russia. He noted that the purpose of the visit is to exchange thoughts on current international developments, coordinate stances and strengthen bilateral relations.