Chinese, Russian presidents meet on bilateral ties, economic crisis

Source: Xinhua | 04-02-2009 08:55

LONDON, April 1 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao said at a meeting with his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev here Wednesday that China and Russia should strengthen cooperation to jointly overcome the current difficulties under the complicated and grave conditions of the world economy.

Chinese President Hu Jintao (L) meets with Russian  President Dmitry Medvedev in London, Britain, April 1,  2009. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

The two countries need to strengthen communication and consultation, coordinate their stands within the G20 framework in particular, and push forward reforms of the international financial system, Hu said.

The two sides can have in-depth communication and exchanges, through such channels as the bilateral sub-committee on financial cooperation and the dialogue between finance ministers, on maintaining stability of their economic and financial systems and financial markets, he said.

He said the two sides should strengthen practical cooperation by implementing existing cooperation agreements and pushing forward the major joint projects in natural gas, nuclear energy and other fields.

Hu expressed his appreciation for Russia's consistent support for China on issues concerning Tibet. Medvedev said Russia will, as always, stick to its position in this regard.

"This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Russia, and it is also the 'Year of Russian Language' in China," Hu said.

In general, Chinese-Russian ties got off to a good start this year and are gathering momentum for comprehensive and more rapid development, he said.