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)