🔻The Russian president says that Elon Musk is a “true genius.” He said that he has “close” contact with Mr. Musk regarding communications satellite technologies.

Vladimir Putin made these remarks at a summit of Russia and Africa in Moscow. At the meeting, he discussed Russia’s satellite internet project called “Rassvet,” a project that—through satellites—enables people to access the internet.

“Starlink” is part of SpaceX, which belongs to Mr. Musk.

The company did not respond to a request from the BBC for comment on the matter.

The Russian president also said that it is important for Russia to maintain contact with Elon Musk so that the “Rassvet” and “Starlink” satellites in Earth orbit do not interfere with each other’s operations.

He said: “We and our American partners both value this cooperation, and despite all the differences and political issues, we are working hard.”

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