DHAKA: Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting Latin America in an apparent bid to seek allies to counter US and Western influence.

In Cuba, the first stop of his tour, he met leader Raul Castro, and his predecessor and brother Fidel Castro, reports BBC.

Russia confirmed cancellation of 90% of Cuba's debt two days before the visit.

Putin will also travel to Argentina and Brazil, where he will attend the football World Cup final on Sunday as leader of the next host nation.

Later he will attend a summit of the Brics emerging economies - also including India, China and South Africa - in the Brazilian city of Fortaleza.

BDST: 1220 HRS, JUL 12, 2014