Putin gives watch and knife to Siberian shepherds

He found time for a back-to-nature break, showing off some of his survival skills while camping in the wilderness on the bank of Khemchik River in Russia’s southern Siberian republic of Tyva.

The 56-year-old premier used the opportunity to stay in shape by horseback riding, rafting down a fast-flowing river and swimming.

During a rest stop he noticed a shepherd with a flock of sheep, and invited the man for tea. In response, the shepherd invited the premier to see his modest house.

As a “thank you” for a warm reception, Putin gave his watch to the shepherd’s son and his hunting knife to the owner of the house.