Vladimir Putin has accepted the credentials of new US Ambassador John Tefft, and said that he hopes for a thawing in ties with Washington, based on mutual respect - and both sides keeping out of each other's backyards, reports GHN based on RT.
"We are ready for practical cooperation with our American partners concerning a wide range of issues under the principles of mutually understanding each other, without interfering in each other's internal affairs," Putin said at a ceremony at the Kremlin, where he accepted the credentials of 15 new ambassadors to the country, including US Ambassador John Tefft.
Putin said that Russia and the US share responsibility for ensuring safety and stability around the globe, and reiterated that Moscow was willing to work with the US following strained relationsbetween the two countries.
Underlining the importance of the two countries' roles around the world, Putin said, "Russia and the US have a particular responsibility to support safety and stability in the world and to counter global challenges and threats," according to a transcript of his remarks reported by RIA Novosti.
The official presentation of the 15 ambassadors took place in the Kremlin. The new US Ambassador to Russia, John Tefft, takes over from his predecessor, Michael McFaul, who left his post following the conclusion of the Sochi Olympics in February.
Among other issues, the crisis in Ukraine, where Washington has accused Moscow of backing anti-government forces in the southeast of the country, as well as Crimea voting to cede from Ukraine, has not helped relations between the two countries.
Meanwhile Russia has been critical of US sanctions imposed on Moscow for what Washington perceives as its role in the unrest in Ukraine.