Chinese President Hu Jintao (3rd R) meets with Russian journalists before he is jointly interviewed by the Russian media at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, on March 20, 2007. These journalists are working for Interfax News Agency, Itar-Tass News Agency, Russian Information Agency, Russian Newspaper, Voice of Russia Radio Station and Russian State TV and Radio Company. (Xinhua Photo/Ma Zhancheng) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, March 26 -- President Hu Jintao has briefed Russian reporters ahead of a visit to their country that starts Monday. Once there, Hu Jintao will attend the opening ceremony of the Year of China in Russia.

    The Year of Russia in China has just finished, and the Year of China in Russia is now beginning. Hu Jintao called on the two countries to use these events to promote mutual understanding and friendship.

    Hu said "Continuing to promote our strategic partnership and friendship is in the common interests of the two countries and two peoples."

    President Hu said China is willing to join hands with Russia to deepen bilateral ties. He said the two countries should strengthen mutual trust and understanding, continue to create a win-win situation and promote economic, energy and technological cooperation. Trade between China and Russia hit a record high of 33 billion US dollars last year.

    Hu Jintao said both countries have worked together on regional and international issues, including the DPRK and Iran nuclear issues. He said they should continue to contribute to world peace, stability and prosperity.

Related:

Chinese president leaves for Russia

    BEIJING, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao left here on Monday morning to pay a three-day state visit to Russia at the invitation of his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

    During the visit, President Hu will attend the opening ceremony of the "Year of China" in Russia.  Full text

    (Source: cctv.com)