Moscow Conference on Int'l Security focused on Syria, Iraq, Middle East, Africa - Putin
MOSCOW. April 24 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he is expecting the Moscow Conference on International Security to address normalization processes in Syria and Iraq and the situation in Africa and the Middle East.
"This year, we will concentrate on a series of topical issues, including assistance in the restoration and normalization processes unfolding in Syria and Iraq after the defeat of terrorist groups, and future developments in Africa and the Middle East," Putin said in his message to conference delegates posted on the Kremlin website.
"I am sure that the conference will be constructive and make a weighty contribution to the consolidation of efforts in the fight against terrorism and extremism, the settlement of regional conflicts, the provision of global security, and the accomplishment of necessary peacekeeping missions," Putin said.
The keen interest in the forum evidences its status of an authoritative and acclaimed international venue for security debates, he said.
The Moscow Conference on International Security was established in 2012. This year, it is attended by defense ministers of 35 countries. The conference will address security issues of the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.