Putin urges fight against protectionism

• Tweet

VLADIVOSTOK, Russia, Sept. 8 (UPI) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin called on Asian Pacific nations Saturday to work together to counter "protectionism in all its manifestations."

Putin's comments came during the first working session of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Vladivostok, Russia, ITAR-Tass reported.

"The most important task is to pool efforts to counteract protectionism in all its manifestations," the president said in opening remarks.

It's the 20th summit meeting of the organization and was held at Far Eastern Federal University.

Putin urged the summit delegates to meet and talk with the students.

"I invite you -- official invitations will be sent later -- to address students here to tell them about your vision of the development of cooperation in this region," Putin said. "I am sure it would be interesting both for you and for young people who will study here."