China's top leaders have met with visiting Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin in Beijing. The two countries are pledging to further strengthen diplomatic, economic, and technological cooperation.

 

President Hu Jintao hosted Vladimir Putin at the Diaoyutai State Guest House. Hu Jintao spoke highly of the new development in the strategic partnership between the two countries.

President Hu said that 2009 marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Russia, which is a milestone in Sino-Russian relations.

He also says the strategic partnership is at a crucial point, showing a brighter future. China is willing to work with Russia to seize the opportunity to further promote cooperation in areas of trade, energy, and high technology.

Russian Prime Minister Putin says that he feels elated to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the People's Republic of China with the Chinese people. He believes his visit has been successful, and hopes that the "Year of China" can be hosted in Russia in 2010.

Top legislator Wu Bangguo met with Prime Minister Putin at the Great Hall of the People. He congratulated Putin on his successful visit and says that cooperation has brought about substantial benefits for people from both countries.

Putin says Russia will implement the agreements signed in previous rounds of talks and highlighted the importance of friendly exchanges between the two sides.

Vladimir Putin is on his first official visit to China since becoming Prime Minister in May 2008.