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Russia and the US "have worked, are working and will continue to work to solve all problems, those of a global nature and crisis situations," Putin said at his country residence in Moscow while answering questions on the ongoing Iraq war.
Russia and the US shared common interests in working together on all global problems, he said, adding that Russia-US relationship was based on common principles.
However, Putin emphasized Russia would not allow itself to be dragged into any of the world's unresolved conflicts, saying: "Russia can not afford to get dragged into any crisis or conflict...I will do everything I can to avoid Russia getting involved in the Iraqi crisis in any way."
Moreover, the president reiterated Russia's stance on the Iraq war, noting that Russia's position had not changed and the crisis should be returned for discussion at the United Nations Security Council.
Russia had been firmly opposed to any US-led military action against Iraq, saying that the Iraq war was a "serious mistake" because it was launched with the UN backing.
(Xinhua News Agency, April 4, 2003)
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