Putin Presents Updated Russian Foreign Policy Concept

The updated version of the document was drafted in accordance with the Presidential Executive Order dated May 7, 2012.

Speaking about the amended document, Putin said it now "takes into account recent changes in the world, and this is important.”

"In particular, it reflects major developments such as the global financial and economic crisis, which continues to worry us all, the changing balance of power in the world and in world affairs, the growing turbulence in the Middle East and North Africa, and the increasing significance of the cultural and civilisational dimensions in global competition today.”

The head of state stressed that basic principles of Russia’s foreign policy will remain unchanged.

"Above all, these are the principles of openness, predictability, pragmatism, a focus on results, and protection of our national interests - without confrontation of any kind,” he said.