Russian President Vladimir Putin has given the United States a rare pat on the back, saying he's impressed by the "creativity" of America.
In an interview to be aired Sunday on
CBS' "60 Minutes," correspondent Steve Kroft asks Putin what he admires about America.
"I like the creativity. Creativity when it comes to your tackling problems. Their openness, openness and open-mindedness, because it allows them to unleash the inner potential of their people," Putin says.
"And thanks to that, America has attained such amazing results in developing their country."
Putin also says about the United States: "We're curious about what's going on [there]. America exerts enormous influence on the situation in the world as a whole."
Kroft notes that many refer to Putin as a "czar," which likens him to an emperor or king.
"So what, you know people call me different names ... No, it does not fit me. It's not important how I'm called," Putin says.
"It's important what you think about you, what you must do for the interest of the country which has entrusted you with the position as the head of the Russian state."
The interview will air 7:30-9:00 pm/ ET on CBS.
On Monday, Putin jets to New York to address the United Nations General Assembly. He will also
meet with President Barack Obama.