ASTANA, JANUARY 9, RIA NOVOSTI - President Nursultan Nazarbayev wished Vladimir Putin, his Russian counterpart, every success in an upcoming presidential race.
Mr. Putin is a frank and outspoken man, Kazakhstan's President said at a gala opening of Russia Year. He described himself as a steeled politician, one who has enough experience to see that President Putin is a loyal friend, and good on his word-rare merits in big politics. His frankness makes all subterfuges unneeded when you deal with him, remarked the host.
"Many people think Russia cannot now offer an alternative to Putin. I am one of those people. President Putin is making steady progress as leader, and I wish him success in this year's presidential election," said President Nazarbayev.
