Putin removes Russian deputy foreign minister and Middle East envoy Mikhail Bogdanov
Mr Bogdanov's departure was announced in a presidential decree, effective immediately. The 73-year-old said it was due to retirement.
Mr Bogdanov began his career in 1974. He became Deputy Foreign Minister in June 2011 and was appointed special presidential envoy to the Mena region in October 2014.
Over the years, he oversaw Russia's relations with the Middle East and Africa, the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation and other international Muslim organisations, co-operation with Russian Muslim organisations, as well as issues pertaining to the Middle East peace process.
He held various diplomatic posts in embassies in the Middle East, including in Yemen, Lebanon, Egypt, Israel and Syria.
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