Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has hosted Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, hailing friendly ties between the two nations.
While welcoming Rivlin in the Kremlin, Putin noted that nearly 1.5 million Israeli citizens have origins in Russia and other former Soviet nations, which helps drive Russia and Israel closer.
The Russian president said he also expects to meet soon with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss regional security issues.
After Russia launched its air campaign in Syria on Sept. 30, it coordinated with Israel to prevent any possible incidents between Russian and Israeli militaries.
Putin on Monday ordered the withdrawal of most Russian warplanes from Syria, voicing hope that it would contribute to the success of Syria peace talks in Geneva.