The Venezuelan president has arrived in Russia to participate in the May 9 Victory Day celebrations

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro have signed a strategic partnership agreement to expand cooperation across key sectors, the Kremlin has announced.

The deal was sealed on Wednesday in Moscow after talks between the two leaders. Maduro had arrived in the Russian capital to attend the May 9 Victory Day celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's defeat of Nazi Germany.

As part of the agreement, Moscow and Caracas pledged to oppose unilateral sanctions, violations of the UN Charter, and what they called manifestations of neo-colonialism.

The document published on the Kremlin's website also outlines plans for cooperation on global and regional security, counterterrorism, counter-extremism, and efforts to combat the falsification of history and the glorification of Nazism.

The pact sets a long-term course for deeper ties in areas including the economy, energy, investment, mineral extraction, transport, telecommunications, healthcare, and culture.

Maduro noted that this year also marks 80 years of diplomatic relations between Moscow and Caracas. He expressed his country's "deep respect" for Russia as it commemorates the anniversary of the victory in the Second World War, praising the "extraordinary effort" made by the Soviet people to end a "horrific and unlawful war brought about by fascism."

The Venezuelan leader, who is accompanied by a high-level delegation including cabinet ministers and senior military officers, said they are "honored to be able to share this significant date" with Moscow.

Foreign leaders and envoys from 29 countries will attend Russia's Victory Day celebrations on May 9 in Moscow, according to presidential aide Yury Ushakov. This year's landmark event will feature the traditional military parade on Red Square.

(RT.com)