In his message of congratulations, the Russian President, who already met with Mr Abe in 2006 and 2007, confirmed the interest in continuing active joint work to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in the political, trade and economic, scientific and technological, humanitarian and other sectors to the benefit of both Russia and Japan and in order to ensure security and stability in the Asia Pacific region and in the world.
Vladimir Putin also congratulated Mr Abe on the coming New Year.