Zimbabwe is a reliable partner of Russia on the African continent, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday during a meeting with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
"Zimbabwe is a good ally of Russia on the African continent, with which we have strong reliable friendly ties," Putin stated.
Russia appreciates Mnangagwa's contribution to strengthening comprehensive cooperation between the two countries, the president added.
"Bilateral memoranda of understanding between cultural and sports ministries are planned to be signed. And this, of course, contributes to the strengthening of humanitarian relations, humanitarian ties," Putin concluded.
In his turn, Zimbabwean president stated that his country is ready to explore alternative and autonomous payment solutions, in particular, the use of alternative payment methods.
The president stressed that Zimbabwe is aware of a progress Russia has already made in terms of findnig alternatives to dollar amid the US sanctions.
The second Russia-Africa Summit and Economic and Humanitarian Forum is taking place in the Russian city of St. Petersburg from July 27-28. Sputnik is an official media partner of the forum.