Russia not to seek confrontation with other countries: Putin

Russia does not and will not seek confrontation with any other country, President Vladimir Putin said at the 17th congress of the ruling United Russia party Saturday.

"We will continue to pursue an open and honest foreign policy ... We are ready to work with all countries -- in the West and in the East -- on the principles of trust and equality," he said in his speech.

Putin said Russia will work with its partners to strengthen the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) and build a "great Eurasian partnership".

The EEU, which comprises Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Russia, is an economic bloc aiming to optimize the flow of goods and services among its members.

Earlier this month, Putin announced his intention to seek a fourth presidential term and contest the election slated for March 18, 2018. He is widely expected to win by a landslide.