CRI听力:Chinese President Honors Russian WWII Veterans

The medal ceremony was held in the President Hotel in the Russian capital, honoring 18 Russian veterans who fought against Japanese invaders in China in the 1930s and 40s.

The Chinese President shook hands with the veterans, and extended his sincere greetings to them on behalf of the Chinese government and people.

Xi Jinping spoke highly of the veteran's contribution to China and to the global fight against fascism.

"Upon the 70th anniversary of the victories in China's War of against Japanese Invasion and the war against fascism, I really feel excited to meet you here in Moscow. Many of you once participated in the battles to help liberate Chinese cities like Changchun, Shenyang, Mudanjiang and Dalian, making a great contribution to the victory of the Chinese people in the Sino-Japanese war."

The president said the commemorative events being held in China and Russia this year are of great significance.

"The commemorative events the two countries hold this year are aimed at remembering the history, treasuring the peace, and pursuing a better future. The Chinese-Russian friendship, forged with lives and blood during wartime, has laid a solid foundation for the two peoples to carry forward their bond from generation to generation."

During World War II, China and Russia suffered casualties of over 35 million and 27 million, respectively.

Xi Jinping is in Moscow for a state visit and commemorative events to mark the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Great Patriotic War, as it is known in Russia.

The highlight of the events is the parade at Red Square that involved a legion of more than 100 Chinese honor guards among over 16-thousand multinational troops.

Also on Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin accepted President Xi's invitation to attend war commemorations in China on Sept. 3.

The day is China's national commemoration day of its victory over the Japanese invaders.

On September 3, 1945, the Japanese army in China formally surrendered to the Chinese government.

For CRI, I'm Liu Yuanhui.