Putin's historic trip to Vietnam

Mr Putin is the first Russian leader to visit Vietnam, including during the Soviet era.

The authorities in Hanoi say they hope the visit will strengthen relations, which were damaged after the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The country was one of Moscow's closest allies during the Cold War.

Mr Putin will hold talks on the future of the strategic naval base at Cam Ranh Bay, where Moscow's lease expires in three years' time.

He's also seeking new arms supply contracts from Vietnam's armed forces.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service