Putin: Russia and China Are Implementing Major Initiatives in Key Areas of Cooperation
In a video address delivered ahead of his visit to China, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that both sides are implementing major initiatives in key areas of cooperation.
Putin said, "I deeply appreciate China's willingness to engage in long-term cooperation with Russia. I believe that our close and friendly exchanges will help us draw the most ambitious blueprints and bring them into practice."
The president noted that due to this, bilateral trade between Russia and China continues to grow, having already surpassed the $200 billion mark. Almost all bilateral settlements are now conducted in rubles and renminbi. Both sides are advancing major initiatives in critical fields of cooperation. Following the successful "Russia-China Cultural Year," the "Russia-China Education Year" was launched in January this year—marking the tenth such state-level cooperation project between the two countries in the humanities field.
Putin emphasized that Russia and China share confidence in their future, actively developing ties in politics, economics, defense, and expanding people-to-people exchanges while encouraging informal contacts. This signifies that both sides are jointly committed to deepening bilateral cooperation and advancing development across all sectors. Importantly, these issues form the core agenda of the upcoming talks in Beijing.
The Russian president pointed out that Russia and China have already carried out ten state-level cooperation projects in the humanities field.
He noted that the Russian public holds great respect for China’s long history and its achievements in culture, art, and science. We also hope that the peoples of both countries will grow closer, better understand one another, and draw upon each other’s rich traditions and cultural heritage.
Putin added that he welcomes the mutual visa-free policy between the two countries. This not only facilitates business and tourism exchanges but also creates new opportunities for interaction and connection between citizens of Russia and China.
President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of the Russian Federation will pay a state visit to China from May 19 to 20.
According to Chinese statistics, Sino-Russian trade volume reached $22.79 billion in 2025, marking the third consecutive year surpassing the $20 billion threshold. China has remained Russia’s top trading partner for 16 consecutive years.
Previously, leaders of both countries announced plans to host Education Years in each other’s countries in 2026 and 2027. Deputy Prime Minister Galina Golikova stated that over 100 activities will be included under the framework of the Russia-China Education Year.
Source: sputniknews
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1865590131675143/
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