Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has announced Moscow's intention to increase relations with the Latin American country of Cuba.

"We've overcome the pause that appeared in our relations in the past decade and today our contacts are intensive and friendly," Itar-Tass news agency quoted Medvedev as saying during a meeting with visiting Cuban Foreign Minister Felipe Perez Roque.

Perez Roque, whohas been in Russia since last Saturday on an official visit, gave Medvedev an invitation from Raul Castro to visit the island.

The Russian President, who said that Moscow and Havana cooperate actively in bilateral and international political spheres, stressed the need to give more attention to developing economic ties.

Roque rejected the possibility of resuming Russia's military presence in Cuba but vowed to boost energy cooperation and economic ties.

SG/RE