MOSCOW, July 5 (Xinhuanet) -- Russia's military leadership will equip the Caspian Fleet with new warships in order to develop the fleet's infrastructure, Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov said on Tuesday.

    "We are paying much attention to the Caspian Fleet with a view to ensuring strategic interests" in the region, Ivanov was quoted by the Itar-Tass news agency as saying at a meeting with Caspian Fleet commanders.

    "The Caspian Fleet has important significance both in providing the country with energy resources and fighting drug trafficking and poaching on the sea," Ivanov said.

    The defense minister said several new warships are being built for the fleet while crew training and other matters are also on the agenda.

    The Itar-Tass said Ivanov also discussed with the navy commanders such issues as combat readiness, military discipline and social problems. Enditem