国内英语新闻:Chinese, Russian leaders agree to enhance bilateral strategic ties

The Russian prime minister noted that currently the two countries are conducting comprehensive and effective cooperation, actively coordinating on a series of important international and regional issues and defending their common interests. The "Year of the Chinese Language" launched recently in Russia will further enhance bilateral relations, he added.

Putin stressed that Russia is willing to strengthen pragmatic cooperation with China in all areas and expand the scope of cooperation, so as to constantly deepen the bilateral strategic and cooperative partnership.

He congratulated Hu on the successful opening of Shanghai Expo, which he described as another splendid global event hosted by China after the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. The expo not only demonstrates China's growing capabilities, but also acts as an important platform for conducting exchanges among the people of all nations, Putin added.

The Chinese president told Putin that he highly appreciated Russia's substantial support for the expo and its active participation in the event that has caught the world's attention.