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Mr Putin congratulated Mr Hu on his election as President of China.

The two leaders discussed current bilateral and multi-lateral issues of Russian-Chinese relations. In connection with this, they exchanged opinions on the preparations for the upcoming visit of the Chinese President to Russia and the upcoming summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The summit will take place in late May in Moscow just before the international celebrations of the 300th anniversary of St Petersburg.

When discussing international issues, Mr Putin and Mr Hu confirmed their unanimous view on the Iraqi conflict.

The same day, Mr Putin sent a message to Mr Hu. The message said, in part:

“In Russia, we pay special attention to further developing a strategic partnership with China and bilateral contacts in all spheres, which is based on the Treaty of Friendship, Good Neighbourliness and Cooperation. I am sure that through joint efforts, we can strengthen relations between our countries for the benefit of our peoples, peace and world security.”

Mr Putin also sent a message to Jiang Zemin, former Chinese President and Chairman of the Central Military Commission. President Putin praised the contribution of the former Chinese President to the development of Russian-Chinese strategic partnership. “In Russia, we know and respect you as a leader who contributed to the reform policy and strengthened China’s economic position on the international scene. You were one of the originators of strategic partnership between our countries based on the Treaty of Friendship, Good Neighbourliness and Cooperation, and now you are helping to further develop Russian-Chinese relations.”