MOSCOW, October 21 (RIA Novosti) - Russian President Vladimir Putin sent his best wishes to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the occasion of his 65th birthday during a phone conversation Tuesday and praised his contribution to the development of bilateral relations, the Kremlin press service said.
"... He noted that during his years as Prime Minister and in other government positions, Mr. Netanyahu had won the respect of his compatriots and is a great authority in the world. Mr. Putin highly praised Mr. Netanyahu’s significant contribution to the development of friendly relations between Russia and Israel," the statement said.
Putin expressed hope "that the constructive dialogue and fruitful cooperation with the Israeli Prime Minister will continue for the benefit of the two countries and in the interests of ensuring regional stability and security".
Netanyahu held the position of Israel's Prime Minister between 1996 and 1999 and again since 2009. He has also headed numerous ministries, from Science and Technology to Foreign Affairs.
