Putin congratulates Biden on presidential victory

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday sent U.S. President-elect Joe Biden a congratulatory telegram on his election victory, the Kremlin said in a statement.

In the telegram, Putin wished Biden success and expressed confidence that despite existing differences, Russia and the United States can contribute to solving many challenges that the world is currently facing, given that both countries bear responsibility for global security and stability, according to the Kremlin.

“The Russian-American cooperation based on the principles of equality and mutual respect would meet the interests of the peoples of both countries and the entire international community,” the Kremlin cited Putin as saying.

“For my part, I am ready for interaction and contact with you,” said Putin.

The U.S. Electoral College cast votes on Monday for a new president based on the 2020 election results, making Democrat Biden’s White House victory official.

The former vice president has surpassed the 270 electoral votes needed to clinch the White House after California, which has 55 Electoral College votes, the most of any state, put Biden over the top on Monday evening.

According to the final count, 306 electoral college votes have been cast for Biden and 232 votes for sitting President Donald Trump.

• It’s official: Biden confirmed as US president-elect by Electoral College

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Source: MOSCOW, Xinhua