Talks concern situation in Iraq and Mideast peace process

Russia's President Vladimir Putin has held talks with Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah on the situation in Iraq and the Mideast peace process.

The two leaders met Sunday at the king's palace in Riyadh. It is the first time a Russian president has visited the kingdom, a traditional ally of the United States.

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Prior to the meeting, King Abdullah told the Russian news agency Itar-Tass that Mr. Putin's visit will help improve bilateral cooperation.

Mr. Putin will make a brief visit to Doha, Qatar Monday, before traveling to Amman, Jordan, for a meeting Tuesday with Jordan's King Abdullah.

Mr. Putin's meetings with Arab leaders are expected to focus on trade and counter-terrorism issues. Moscow also is hoping to sell Russian-made weapons to Arab states that usually buy their arms from the U.S.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.