Landmark gas deal with Russia may be set soon

A landmark gas deal between China and Russia that has been years in the making looks set to be finalized, as the countries prepare to mark the 70th anniversary of victory in World War II.

More than 20 agreements covering finance, transportation and energy cooperation will be signed when Russian President Vladimir Putin attends the Tian'anmen parade on Sept 3, said Andrey Denisov, the Russian ambassador to China, during a news conference on Thursday. He said Putin will arrive in Beijing on Sept 2.

"The gas deal looks very likely to be confirmed at the final moment because of its large scale and importance due to international practices," Denisov said, adding that he was sure that there will be an agreement but that the details won't be disclosed until the last minute.