Former US State Secretary: Russian ex-PM Primakov was true Russian patriotic

He was a true Russian patriotic, who defended the interests of his country with courage and wisdom and was also creative in seeking ways to improve relations with other countries, Henry Kissinger says.

Former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger has conveyed his condolences over the death of Russian former Prime Minister Yevgeny Primakov on Friday.

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a great friend and colleague, Yevgeny Primakov," he said in a statement. "Over the years, I have enjoyed countless conversations with him about global issues, US-Russian relations, and life in general.

"He was a true Russian patriotic, who defended the interests of his country with courage, vigor, and wisdom, but who was also creative in seeking ways to improve relations with other countries, including most importantly the United States. At a time of increasing global turmoil, we will all miss his wise counsel and good humor. I will miss a true friend," Kissinger said.