BEIJING, March 21 (Xinhuanet) -- The Organizing Committee of the Year of Russia in China,  headed by Chinese Vice Premier Wu Yi, announced on March 16, 2006 that its official website, in both Chinese and Russian editions, was now up and operational. 

   The website aims to provide timely coverage of various activities that will take place during the two-year period when the historic events -- the Year of Russia in 2006 and the Year of China in 2007 -- unfold. These activities overspread a wide spectrum of areas, including politics, economy, trade, culture, education, health, sports, press, science and technology, and military affairs.

    Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Hu Jintao announced the Year of Russia to begin on Jan. 1 when they exchanged New Year's greetings on Dec. 31, 2005.

    Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Li Hui told a press conference last week that launching the activities of the Year of Russia and the Year of China is an important political decision made by the two heads of state. It is the first time in the history of Sino-Russian bilateral relations that China and Russia have organized such activities. Their purpose is to push forward the Sino-Russian strategic partnership.

    The official website has since received warm response from Chinese netizens. Following are but a few excerpts of the netizens' comments posted on our online forum.

    ¡¤Great news! It says that Sino-Russian bilateral relations have been growing steadily. It is hoped that China and Russia will from now on join hands in international affairs, and work together to make contributions to the world peace.

    ¡¤First of all, my congratulations! The operation of this official website hopefully will enhance the mutual understanding and friendship betweent the peoples of the two countries.

    ¡¤Many of us in the younger generations know little about Russia and the history of the Sino-Russian bilateral relations. This is where the website can be very helpful.

    ¡¤China and Russia have many shared interests, both being permanent members of the UN Security Council and members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. We should learn to understand and trust each other, so as to nurture a friendly and cooperative relationship. In this way, China and Russia can play positive roles in maintaining a fair and peaceful international order. The website can surely help in this regard.

    The website is available at either www.2006rus.com or www.news.cn. Enditem