MOSCOW, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Chinese-Russian ties have never been better and are poised to develop even further, according to the Chinese ambassador to Russia.

    Li Hui was speaking on Tuesday to Russian media ahead of the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC) and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Russia.

    The Soviet Union recognized the PRC and established diplomatic relations with the country only one day after it was founded, and it provided tremendous assistance for China, Li said.

    The foundation for bilateral trade and economic cooperation between China and Russia remained sound in spite of the economic crisis, Li said, adding that the downward trend in their trade has been contained.

    China and Russia, both permanent members of the UN Security Council, regarded each other as a major strategic partner, Li said.

    The two countries cooperated closely on a series of international and regional issues and were working together in pushing for a multi-polar world, he said.

Special Report: 60th Anniversary of Founding of PRC