Deals pave way for closer Sino-Russian links
By Hu Qihua (China Daily)
Updated: 2005-07-02 01:30

Beijing experts have said such deals are the logical outcome of a long process where economic interests of both sides benefit.

"China has a large market and Russia has very rich reserves, so it's natural for the two countries to provide each other with competitive conditions," said Xing Guangcheng, general secretary of the Chinese Association for East European, Russia and Central Asian Studies.

Heads of both states also gave the green light for energy co-operation between the two corporations.

In addition to economic co-operation, the two countries are keen to take their strategic partnership to a higher level.

"Exchanges are being intensified in trade, economic, energy, cultural, educational, military-technical and other fields," Putin said on Friday.

"The two sides provide support to each other on such issues as sovereignty and territorial integrity. They also maintain sound co-ordination in the international arena," Hu said.

Russia and China intend to strengthen mutual support in resolving problems affecting their vital interests, including the problems of Chechnya and Taiwan, Hu said.

Touching on Sino-Russian co-operation on the international arena, Hu said both sides were "backing each other not only on problems of state sovereignty and territorial integrity, but also on global and regional problems." A major product of Hu's visit has been the signing on Friday of a joint statement by the two state leaders in which they share similar stands on major international issues.

They both support a new, just and rational international order and a larger UN role in world affairs.

"The new security architecture should be based on respect of all states" equal right to security and an equal dialogue. Consultations and talks should be the method for solving disputes and protecting peace," said the document.