Russian President Vladimir Putin is about to visit China
The Kremlin statement said: "At the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay a state visit to China on May 16-17."
Russian media quoted the Kremlin as saying that President Vladimir Putin will visit China on May 16-17.
This will be Mr. Putin's first foreign trip since he took office as President for a fifth term on May 7.
The Kremlin statement said: "At the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay a state visit to China on May 16-17."
According to the Kremlin, the two sides will discuss in detail all issues related to the comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation, identify key areas for further development of Russia-China practical cooperation, and exchange views on pressing regional and international issues. The two leaders are expected to sign a joint statement after the meeting.
In a statement on the same day, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying also announced that at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay a state visit to China from May 16-17.
Earlier, speaking at a press conference on May 13, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said Beijing attached great importance to the diplomatic efforts of President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin in developing bilateral relations.
According to him, the two leaders agreed to maintain close communication to ensure the smooth and stable development of China-Russia relations.