Source: CCTV.com

03-26-2007 16:18

Air Time:

March.27 09:15 15:15

March.28 09:15 15:15

It´s time for the official unveiling of the "Year of China in Russia". In line with Chinese President Hu Jintao´s official visit to Russia, Up-Close is pleased to present a special two-part series with Russian Ambassador Sergey Razov, highlighting the many years of Sino-Russian Friendship.

Russia is the largest country in the world, with vibrant life, beautiful contrasts, and interesting people. With an immense area, Russia reaches nine thousand kilometers from East to West and five thousand from north to south; Russia is home to people of many different nationalities and customs. The country is often called a "bridge" between Europe and Asia, both geographically and sociologically.

The Ural Mountains divide the Eurasian continent - and Russia - between Europe and Asia. One fourth of Russian territory lies in Europe; the other lies in Asia. The capital of Russia is Moscow and the second largest city is St. Petersburg.

Visiting Russia, especially if you come by plane, you'll see endless forests and lakes, and scattered among them, gleaming churches in Moscow and impressive emperors' palaces in St. Petersburg. Crowds of the hip younger generation and groups of old women wearing big fur hats and coats in the snow will also catch your eyes. Overall, Russia is all about these kinds of contrasts - it's about constant change, making it a very dynamic country with endless energy and potential.