Russian President Vladimir Putin has described Tanzania as a strategic gateway linking East Africa to global markets.

Topics of discussion will include expanding cooperation, international and regional issues, and preparations for the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit

Prospects for this are in energy, exploration, transport and other areas, the Russian leader said

Observers say the meeting signals a renewed effort by Russia and Tanzania to diversify and strengthen their cooperation, following recent gains in trade and economic engagement.

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan said the parties discussed "measures to strengthen cooperation in various strategic sectors"

The volume of trade has remained fairly stable in recent years, amounting to about $400 mln annually, Samia Suluhu Hassan said

Russian President Vladimir Putin has described Tanzania as a strategic gateway linking East Africa to global markets.