MOSCOW, June 10 (RIA Novosti) - Prime Minister Vladimir Putin pledged on Wednesday the government's support for Russian-language foreign press.

"We plan to provide every support for Russian-language press while respecting their right to independent coverage, including that of events taking place in Russia... and respecting the legislation and sovereignty of the countries in which they work," Putin said.

Speaking at a reception organized for members of the International Congress of Russian Press, which took place in Moscow earlier on Wednesday, Putin also said media produced in the Russian language were capable of taking leading positions in global journalism.

"Russia is a major newsmaker in the modern world," the premier said. "I am sure, this is a good chance for the whole big Russian media 'family' to take a leading position in the global information market."

Putin invited journalists and press representatives from some 70 countries to contribute to promoting trust between nations and shaping a positive image of Russia.