Russian president kicks off state visit

cctv.com 10-14-2004 13:27

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in China for a 3-day state visit. Putin's meeting with the new Chinese leadership is expected to promote the strategic partnership between the two countries.

It's Putin's first trip to China since he began his second term as president. The visit was timed to coincide with the 55th anniversary of Sino-Russian diplomatic relations.

Putin is scheduled to exchange views with President Hu Jintao on how to better implement the China-Russia Treaty of Good Neighborliness, Friendship and Co-operation as well as other issues of common concern.

China says Beijing and Moscow will sign a joint communique and a series of important documents during Putin's visit. Russian officials disclosed that economic agreements expected to be signed will cover space flight, atomic energy, engineering manufacturing, high technology, information technology and communications.

A deal supporting Russia's accession to the World Trade Organization is also scheduled for signing during Putin's visit.

The Russian President is travelling with a large delegation of governors and businessmen. Russia hopes fruitful results will be achieved and agreements signed to further promote its strategic partnership with China.

After their first stop in Beijing, the Russian President will fly to Xi'an, capital of Northwest China's Shaanxi Province. The rich and untapped resources in China's west are attracting growing interest in Russia, which is seeking more investment and business opportunities.

Editor:Chen  Source:CCTV.com