President Bharrat Jagdeo and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev held talks about strengthening Russian-Latin American and Caribbean relations when they met recently in Moscow.

According to the Government Information Agency (GINA) the ITAR-TASS News Agency quoted Medvedev as saying that Russia has long lacked a presence in Latin America and the Caribbean and as such, “We have taken a strategic decision – we will actively develop cooperation.” “Such interaction is very important for the balance of power in the world, Medvedev said, adding that “this will help in addressing global issues, including climate.”
In response Jagdeo encouraged Russia to become more involved in the Caribbean region. “We want Russia to play a major role, worldwide, in development,” he said, pledging that Guyana would do “everything possible to strengthen Russia’s ties with countries in the Caribbean.”

GINA said Jagdeo had visited Russia to participate in the 50th Anniversary celebrations of the People’s Friendship University of Russia.