Russian President Vladimir Putin walks prior to a State Council meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow on December 27, 2016. (AFP PHOTO )

MOSCOW, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin invited newly-elected German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to visit Russia at his convenience in a congratulatory message on Sunday.

Putin confirmed his readiness to continue a "constructive dialogue" with Germany on bilateral and international issues, according to a Kremlin statement.

In the message, Putin expressed his confidence that Steinmeier will contribute to the development of Russian-German relations and fruitful cooperation in various fields for mutual benefits.

Steinmeier, a former foreign minister, was elected earlier Sunday as Germany's new president, a post more ceremonial than executive.

The incoming president, previously known for his efforts trying to mediate the Ukrainian crisis, is set to assume office next month.