US President Barack Obama has congratulated Vladimir Putin on his victory in the Russian presidential election during a telephone call, the White House and Russian media reported on Saturday. "President Obama and President-Elect Putin agreed that the successful reset in relations should be built upon during the coming years," the White House said in an official release. Russian media reported their call had lasted 20 minutes and that Putin, who currently holds the office of prime minister, had touched on sensitive issues such as the US missile defence shield in Europe and differences on the Syrian conflict. The White House said Obama had highlighted achievements in bilateral relations over the past three years, including cooperation on Afghanistan, the conclusion and ratification of arms agreements, Russia's recent invitation to join the World Trade Organization and cooperation on Iran. Obama also said he looked forward to hosting Putin at the Group of Eight May summit at Camp David, the presidential country retreat, according to a report of DPA. The two leaders had agreed to continue discussions on areas of difference, including Syria and missile defense, the White House said.
