Tanzania, June 4 -- Moscow. Russia's President Vladimir Putin has described President Samia Suluhu Hassan's decision to make Moscow the destination of her first state visit after inauguration as a strong signal of Tanzania's commitment to deepening relations between the two countries.

Welcoming President Hassan at the Kremlin yesterday, President Putin said the visit carried special significance as Tanzania and Russia prepare to mark 65 years of diplomatic relations this year.

"It is gratifying to note that after your inauguration you chose Russia as the first foreign country for your state visit. We see this as a very good sign," President Putin said.

He said that President Hassan had consistently supported the development of bilatera...