RUSSIALINK: “Putin: One Belt, One Road initiative lays down int’l relations principles that are relevant today” – Interfax

BEIJING. April 26 (Interfax) – Russian President Vladimir Putin has thanked Chinese President Xi Jinping for the invitation to take part in the One Belt, One Road forum, adding he sees that this initiative keeps developing.

“It has proven to be immensely timely and successful. It is taking on a global nature and is starting to lay down the principles of building international relations and the norms of economic ties that are relevant today,” Putin said, stressing this is the reason why this initiative enjoys such great support around the world.

When speaking about Russian-Chinese relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic interaction, the Russian leader said that these relations have been developing in all areas at a “very considerable” pace.

This year, Russia and China mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations, Putin said. Putin also told the Chinese president that he looks forward to his state visit to Russia, which will become a key political event in bilateral relations.

“I am very pleased to have this opportunity today to meet with you, our Chinese colleagues and friends and discuss issues on the bilateral agenda and issues of international relations of mutual interest,” Putin said, reaffirming Russia’s intention to further develop its strategic partnership with China.

The Chinese president, for his part, said that Putin had delivered an important speech at the opening of the One Belt, One Road forum, highlighting Russia’s active role in creating an open world and facilitating regional integration.

“I am confident that, given our joint efforts and the efforts of our other partners, this forum will send even more signals and will open up new prospects for the joint construction of the One Belt, One Road,” Xi said.

Bilateral relations between Russia and China have become an example of relations between two major powers, notable for the highest level of mutual trust, the closes interaction and great strategic relevance, the Chinese president said.

“Bearing in mind the interests of our peoples, I am ready to wholly support together with you the development of our relations and, in the spirit of the time, give them new vitality and energy, which will contribute to further development for the benefit of a beautiful future world,” he said.