Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomes NATO's selection of former Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg.<br /> <br />In an interview with state-run TV, Putin indicated that the appointment of Stoltenberg, who takes over in October, could help ties.<br /> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) RUSSIAN PRESIDENT VLADIMIR PUTIN, SAYING:<br /> <br />"We have very good relations, including personal relations. This is a very serious, responsible person. But let's see how he will develop relations in his new capacity."<br /> <br />Putin says there's no reason why relations between Russia and the West can not improve.<br /> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) RUSSIAN PRESIDENT VLADIMIR PUTIN, SAYING:<br /> <br />"This does not depend on us. Or rather not only on us. This depends on our partners. I think there is nothing that would hinder a normalization and normal cooperation."<br /> <br />Putin also rejects criticism of Crimea's referendum.<br /> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) RUSSIAN PRESIDENT VLADIMIR PUTIN, SAYING:<br /> <br />"I know it and I talked about
