Havana - Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Miguel Diaz-Canel on his election as president of Cuba and reiterated his willingness to strengthen the strategic relationship between Moscow and Havana.

"The decision of the National Assembly testifies to his high political authority and, recognition of his achievements in tackling issues related to the country's socio-economic development," Putin said in his congratulatory message to Diaz-Canel, according to TASS  news agency.

Putin stressed that Russia "attaches great importance to strengthening relations of the strategic partnership with Cuba," and said he was confident that the Cuban president's upcoming visit to Moscow at the end of the month will serve to "further expand mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation in various fields.

The Russian president also wished Diaz-Canel success, good health, and well-being.