Putin To Discuss Settlements In National Currencies W/President Xi

Reuters carrying remarks from Russian President Vladimir Putin on a range of topics, including the war between Israel and Hamas, his upcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in China, and measures to stabilise the rouble.

• Putin says that he will discuss, "mutual settlements in national currencies" with President Xi, adding that China's Belt and Road Initiative will be a "key topic" of his visit to China.
• Putin is expected to travel to Beijing October 17-18 to attend the forum to mark the 10th anniversary of the BRI. The event is expected to be a significant meeting of leaders from BRI participants from Latin America and Africa who are aligned with both Beijing and Moscow.
• On the war between Israel and Hamas, Putin says, "resolution to conflict could be reached via mediation," promoting Russia as a possible arbiter due to, "good relations with Israel and traditional relations with Palestine."
• On the rouble, Putin says: "Rouble rate to dollar is not related to economic problems, the issue is in forex regulation," stating that, "we need a slightly better rouble rate for budget."
• Putin: "We will take decision in line with events on forex market."