MOSCOW (Sputnik) — On August 13, Cuban revolutionary leader Castro celebrates his 90th birthday.
In a message sent to the former Cuban leader Putin underlined Castro's "personal contribution to the development of friendship and cooperation between our [Russia, Cuba] countries."
"I am confident that these relations will continue to develop fruitfully in the future, contributing to regional stability and security," the text of the Putin's message says as quoted by the Kremlin.
Castro gave up his presidential position in 2008 after a serious illness and his brother, Raul Castro, was voted in as president.
Russia and Cuba have enjoyed close cooperation since the days of the Soviet Union. In recent years, Russia has moved to step up ties with Cuba.
