Leaders of China and Russia vowed on Friday to boost the
development of strategic partnership of cooperation, particularly
in the economic and trade sector.
Meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, visiting Chinese
Premier Wen
Jiabao pledged that China will continue to handle relationship
with Russia from the strategic and long-term perspective, stressing
that China regards Russia as an important strategic partner.
Wen expected greater joint efforts in promoting mutually
beneficial cooperation in the fields of politics, security,
economic and trade, investment, energy resources, technology and
culture.
He also called for strengthening coordination and cooperation
between the two neighbors on international and regional affairs,
saying it will promote world peace and development.
The Chinese premier said that bilateral trade turnover may
exceed US$20 billion in 2004 and it is feasible that the volume
will hit US$60 billion to 80 billion by 2010.
Wen expressed hope that China and Russia will strengthen
cooperation in the energy resources industry, which has bright
prospect and strong potential.
In response to Wen's proposals, Putin said Russia will actively
nurture bilateral ties bearing in mind the strategic partnership
with China. He also hailed the all-round and smooth development of
Sino-Russian relationship and the harmonious coordination on the
world arena.
Putin expressed the hope for greater cooperation in oil, natural
gas and nuclear sectors, promising that Russia will not change its
decision on developing energy cooperation with China.
The Russian president also called for efforts to gradually
improve mutual trade structures, boost investment and accelerate
the drafting of an accord on protecting bilateral investment.
Wen expressed condolences to the Russian people over the recent
terrorist attacks, confirming that China resolutely condemns the
brutal and inhuman terrorist acts and firmly supports Russia's
position and efforts in fighting terrorism.
The premier told Putin that Chinese President Hu Jintao expects
his visit to China next month, saying the tour will play a
significant role in enhancing cooperation both in bilateral and
international affairs.
Putin congratulated Hu for becoming the chairman of the Central
Military Commission of the Chinese Communist Party, saying he
expects talks with Hu on searching new methods to expand and
further friendly cooperation between the two countries.
Wen arrived here on Thursday on a three-day official visit.
Wen also held talks on Friday with Sergei Mironov, chairman of
Russian Federal Council -- upper house of the parliament, and Boris
Cryzlov, chairman of State Duma -- the lower house of the Russian
parliament.
(Xinhua News Agency September 25, 2004)