Russian President Vladimir Putin made a surprise visit to the predominantly Muslim region of Chechnya on Wednesday, marking his first trip to the area in over a decade.

The visit has garnered significant attention, particularly after a video emerged showing Putin respectfully kissing a gifted Quran and holding it close to his heart.

Upon his arrival, Putin was warmly greeted by Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, with the two leaders discussing bilateral relations and emphasizing the strengthening of military, trade, and economic ties between their regions.

The visit, Putin’s first to Chechnya since 2011, highlights the strong relationship between the two entities. Kadyrov has repeatedly referred to Putin as a close friend in public statements.

During the visit, Putin, accompanied by Kadyrov and the Grand Mufti of Chechnya, visited the Isa Prophet Mosque in Grozny, the Chechen capital. There, Putin was presented with a rare edition of the Quran, which he kissed as a sign of respect and held to his chest.

The Grand Mufti of Chechnya also recited a verse from Surah Al-Anfal and provided its translation in Russian for Putin.

The symbolic gesture of kissing the Quran, along with the overall visit, is seen as a demonstration of Putin’s commitment to fostering positive relations with the Muslim-majority region of Chechnya.